Government’s top science and tech advisor starts work

New government chief scientific adviser Dr Patrick Vallance takes up post

Dr Patrick Vallance, the former president of research and development at pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline, has today started his role of the government’s chief scientific adviser.

Vallance, who was named to the post last November, takes over from interim chief prof Chris Whitty, who has been in post since September following the departure of Sir Mark Walport to lead new public body UK Research and Innovation. Vallance, who has previously advised government as a member of the UK Ministerial Industry Strategy Group, will provide counsel to the prime minister and her cabinet on all matters related to technology and science.

Prior to his six years as GSK research president, Vallance was head of medicine at University College London.


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He said that “harnessing the very best science and technology has never been more important to the UK’s economy, future and citizens”.

He added: “Science and technology have a vital role to play at the heart of policymaking and I look forward to working with colleagues to ensure the government has the best possible advice, from the best experts, based on the strongest evidence.

“It is essential that we have world-class scientists and engineers working in government. Excellence can only be delivered by a diverse and inclusive profession. It will be a key priority for me to ensure we go further to improve representation across the profession.”

Sam Trendall

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