The Future of Barley: Resilience Against Climate Change

Join us at Canvas for a lunchtime event exploring how climate change is reshaping the future of barley—one of Scotland’s most essential crops—and how researchers at the Hudson Institute are working to protect it for the whiskies and beers we rely on.

This session blends science, sustainability, and brewing culture in a relaxed lunchtime setting. The programme features presentations from three women PhD researchers from the Hutton Institute whose work focuses on barley resilience and climate impacts:

• Shanzay Qamar
• Ella Southin
• Alanna McCutcheon

The discussion will be chaired by Bella Perez of 71 Brewery, Scotland’s only female brewmaster. Bella will connect the scientific research to its real‑world implications for the brewing sector.

Together, the speakers will offer three short presentations, followed by a Q&A and an informal chance to socialise.

Event Details

· Date: 28 April 2026

• Location: Canvas (Ure Street, Dundee, DD1 5EH, same street as the Whitehall Theatre)
• Doors open: 12:00
• Talks starts: 12.30
• Bar open: Serving soft drinks, whiskies, and beers—including climate‑resilient varieties
• Food: Bring your own picnic lunch
• Post‑talk social: Bar open until 14:30
• Parking: Free on-site parking available
• Cost: Free and open to the public

Presentation topics:

*enhancing the genetic resilience and malting quality of barley using new gene editing and plant regeneration techniques.

*developing a female barley flower to boost crop yield for the Scottish whisky industry.

*looking at a specific type of barley which use this plastic adaptability under heat and drought stresses.

This event is presented and hosted by Graduate Women Scotland East as part of their ongoing commitment to supporting the research and education of women and girls in the local community. It also forms part of the wider mission of Graduate Women Scotland and Graduate Women International, both of which work to advance understanding of how women‑led research can drive effective climate action.

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