Sir will be stepping down as
Government Chief Scientific Adviser (GCSA), at the end of
his 5-year post in April 2023.
A competition to recruit his successor will be launched
shortly to leave sufficient time to get someone in place to
allow a smooth transition.
Appointing the GCSA from
outside the Civil Service for the usual 5-year term is an
important way to ensure transparent and independent advice.
Prime Minister, said:
It is impossible to fully convey the impact that Sir Patrick has
had as Chief Scientific Adviser.
He has played an instrumental role in expanding and accelerating
the science super prowess of this country. Overseeing the
development and innovative use of new technologies, responding to
the global threat of climate change, boosting the life sciences
and health of our nation, and ensuring our policies and decisions
are informed by the latest and best scientific thinking.
Sir Patrick may not have bargained for becoming a household name
when he signed up for the job, but I am immensely grateful for
his advice and expertise throughout the pandemic and beyond. It’s
our scientists and clinicians, led by Sir Patrick, Sir , and their team, that oversaw
the largest vaccine rollout in British history together with my
government.
He will be missed by all when he leaves next year, and I
wish him the very best in all future endeavours.
Sir said:
Science and engineering remain vital for the future prosperity of
the UK, and high-quality evidence and science advice should be at
the heart of all government decision making.
Appointing the GCSA for fixed
periods is an important way to ensure independence and my
5-year term has been both challenging and immensely rewarding. I
remain fully committed to my role until my successor takes up the
role.
The role of the GCSA is to
advise the Prime Minister and government on all matters related
to science and technology and to ensure that policies and
decisions are informed by the best scientific evidence and
strategic long-term thinking.
The GCSA is head of
the Government Science and Engineering (GSE) profession and
Co-chair of the independent Council for Science and
Technology which provides high level advice to the Prime
Minister.
The Government Office for Science works closely with the
new Office for Science and
Technology Strategy in the Cabinet Office which the
current GCSA oversees
in his role as National Technology Adviser.
