Dan Horton
Biography
Dan was appointed Interim Director of Animal and Plant Science at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) in April 2026.
Dan was previously Director of Science Operations and Research at APHA from June to November 2025 before covering the role of the Director of Science Capability.
He joined APHA in 2024 to lead the Virology Department, overseeing the Agency’s research and surveillance on animal and zoonotic viral diseases.
Dan previously worked at the University of Surrey where he supported the development of the veterinary school from 2014, and he was then Associate Dean for Research and Innovation in the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. He retains an honorary position as visiting Professor in Veterinary Virology.
His expertise covers the full spectrum of infectious disease research, with a particular interest in pathogens and the interface between wildlife, livestock and human health.
Director of Animal and Plant Science
This director is responsible for:
- the operational delivery of science and research in APHA
- the quality and integrity of APHA’s scientific services
- making sure that the scientific perspective is part of the decision-making in APHA
Previous roles in government
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Director for National Biosecurity Centre, Weybridge