St Andrews Academics appointed to the Scottish Science Advisory Council

Five academics from the University of St Andrews have been appointed as members to the Scottish Science Advisory Council (SSAC).

The SSAC is, according to their website, “Scotland’s highest level advisory body, providing independent advice to the Chief Scientific Advisor for Scotland and to Scottish Ministers.” The organisation informs Scottish Government policy and priorities, advising on developments in science and technology, and develops advice based on a long-term view of future opportunities and threats.

The new members from the University are Professor Simon Dobson, Deputy Head of School from the School of Computer Science, Professor Russell Morris from the School of Chemistry, Professor Ifor Samuel from the School of Physics and Astronomy, Professor Deborah Williamson, Dean of Medicine and Head of School from the School of Medicine, and lastly, Dr Alex Browne from the School of Chemistry, who is joining as an Associate Member.

Ten new members and associate members were appointed to the SSAC board, with the St Andrews academics making up half of the new cohort. As part of the SSAC board, they will work with chair Professor Julian Jones, providing advice to Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, Chief Scientific Advisor. The new members will serve on the board for three years, with the exception of Associate Members who, as early career researchers, will initially serve for one year.

“Our new members and associates bring a range of expertise and experience to the SSAC, complementing that of our existing members,” Professor Jones commented. “This will broaden our range of specialist skills as we continue to provide expert scientific advice in subjects of critical importance to the Scottish Government.”

The SSAC holds quarterly meetings to keep track of its latest work and areas of interest, and its most recent meeting was on Tuesday 25 March, in Edinburgh.

Image by University of St Andrews