New Chief Scientific Adviser announced

Professor Julie Fitzpatrick OBE has been appointed as the Scottish Government’s next Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA).

In addition to working with other senior advisers as part of the pandemic response, Professor Fitzpatrick will remain the Scientific Director of Moredun Research Institute and CEO of The Moredun Foundation, a research institute in Midlothian with expertise in livestock health and infectious diseases.

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

“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.”

Professor Fitzpatrick 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.”

Professor Fitzpatrick will start her new post on 14 June 2021.