Dame Anna Dominiczak named as Scotland's new chief scientist for health

Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak has been appointed as Scotland’s new chief scientist for health.

A world-leading cardiovascular scientist and clinical academic, she will take up the post on July 1.

The role involves advising the country’s chief medical officer, as well as senior civil servants in the Government’s health and social care teams.

It is a three-year fixed-term position, working the equivalent of three days per week.

Prof Dominiczak will replace Prof David Crossman, who had held the position since 2017.

During the coronavirus pandemic, she successfully led the establishment of the Lighthouse Laboratory in Glasgow.

And she was awarded a DBE for services to cardiovascular and medical science in 2016.

“I am delighted to take up the role of chief scientist (health) and to have the opportunity to work with the renowned Scottish health research, development and innovation community,” she said.

“I look forward to ensuring that health research, development and innovation takes a central role in the modernisation of the NHS in Scotland”.

Health secretary Humza Yousaf said he looked forward to working with Prof Dominiczak, and thanked Prof Crossman.

“I am pleased to confirm the appointment of Professor Dame Dominiczak who brings a wealth of experience to the role of chief scientist (health),” said Yousaf.

“I look forward to working together closely in the coming months and her expertise and advice will be crucial as we continue our recovery from the pandemic.

“I would like to thank outgoing chief scientist (health) Professor David Crossman for his years of valuable public service and wish him well for the future.”