Following the announcement that Professor Dame Angela McLean FRS is to take up the position of Government Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Dame Anne Johnson PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said:
“I offer my warm congratulations to Professor Dame Angela McLean FRS on her appointment as the new Government Chief Scientific Advisor.
“Professor Dame Angela McLean FRS joins the Government at a pivotal time. Science is now at the heart of decision making, with the newly created Department of Science, Innovation and Technology and dedicated Secretary of State.
“Alongside her GCSA role, Professor Dame Angela McLean FRS will lead the Office for Science and Technology Strategy, which has a critical role in driving forward the UK’s ambitions to be a science superpower.
“The GCSA has an essential role in championing the opportunities that scientific research brings including leading innovation, boosting economic growth and improving the health of the nation. As we saw during the pandemic, research is vital for protecting the UK from future health threats. Professor Dame Angela McLean FRS brings a wealth of experience to this role, including her key contribution on the COVID-19 Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies. Her previous role as Chief Scientific Advisor to the Ministry of Defence and her broad expertise in infectious disease epidemiology both place her well to best champion evidence-based decision making in Government.
“I look forward to working with her to build on the impressive legacy of Sir Patrick Vallance FRS FMedSci, continuing to tackle the challenges and opportunities for health research and the health of the public.”
-ENDS-
This response was covered by The Guardian and Times Higher Education.