Scottish Government names next chief scientific adviser

Professor Julie Fitzpatrick OBE has been appointed as the Scottish Government’s next chief scientific adviser.

The role, which is a three-days-a-week secondment to the Scottish Government for three years, will see Professor Fitzpatrick working with other senior advisers as part of the pandemic response.

She is currently scientific director of Moredun Research Institute and the CEO of the Moredun Group, as well as holding a chair in food security at the University of Glasgow’s College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences.

The chief scientific adviser provides advice in a range of policy areas, and is an ex-officio member of the Scottish Science Advisory Council.

Professor Fitzpatrick will start in her new role on June 14.

She said: “I’m very much looking forward to engaging with scientists and engineers inside government and across our science base to hear more about their inspiring work and how new developments could impact on the work of the Scottish Government.

“I know that ministers and officials recognise the value of science and I’m keen to support their work by helping them to access and use science advice and evidence across a range of policy areas.”

Education and skills secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville added: “The past year has highlighted just how important science is to the work of the Scottish Government, and I’m delighted to welcome Professor Fitzpatrick as our new chief scientific adviser.

“As CSA, Professor Fitzpatrick will play a key role in ensuring that science advice informs our work across the board and adds value to our pandemic response.”