By Émer O’Toole, Editor-in-Chief
A University of Strathclyde academic is among seven leading scientists set to form a revitalised Scottish Science Advisory Council (SSAC) to advise Scottish Ministers from 1 February.
The appointment of the experts – who include Strathclyde’s Professor Iain Hunter – follows an internal review of the SSAC’s role and remit, including how it provides advice on science-related issues to Government and the Chief Scientific Adviser.
Professor Hunter said: “I am delighted to be appointed to SSAC, which provides independent advice to Scottish Government on policy related to science, engineering and technology.”
“The ‘triple helix’ approach, which has inputs from university, industry and government, is critical to exploiting science, engineering, and technology research to grow Scotland’s economy. SSAC has an important role to play in these interactions.”
The new members include professors from Strathclyde, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Leicester universities.
The new members of the SSAC bring a range of science expertise, from research in space engineering and Alzheimer’s disease, to experience of working with industry and organisations across the UK and in Europe.
Commenting on his appointment and plans for the SSAC, new Chair Professor Paul Boyle said it is “an exciting time” to be joining the SSAC.
“The independent scientific advice provided by the Council will be a vital part of the information that Ministers and policy officials across the Scottish Government will use to make robust decisions that will benefit Scotland’s future economy and society.”
Science Minister, Dr Alasdair Allan, said: “Science is at the heart of much of the Scottish Government’s work, driving our economy and improving our quality of life.”
“These new appointments will help ensure we have access to the very best scientific advice across a diverse range of policy areas.”
“It is also heartening to see that nearly half of the new appointments are female scientists at a time when we need more young women to take up science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers. We are currently recruiting for a new Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland who will work closely with the SSAC once appointed.”
The SSAC is an important source of science advice, and complements the other science advisers available to the Scottish Government, including the Chief Scientist (Health) and the Chief Scientific Adviser for Rural Affairs, Food and the Environment.
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