Chief Scientific Adviser sees Leeds research in action
Putting world-leading research at the heart of political decision-making is vital in tackling global issues, the Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser told a Leeds audience.
Professor Dame Angela McLean, who provides independent, evidence-based scientific advice directly to the Prime Minister and Cabinet, was speaking at a keynote speech at the University of Leeds.
“Science advice is about ensuring research is at the heart of government decision-making and receives attention at the highest levels,” she said at the event, in the Esther Simpson Building.
“Universities are an essential part of the UK's scientific strength, providing the evidence, expertise and innovation that help government make better decisions.”
Dame Angela met with key members of the Priestley Centre for Climate Futures, who showcased how the University is providing independent evidence to inform the delivery of a climate resilient decarbonised future.
And a regional innovation session brought together partners from the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to showcase regional innovation and how the region is facilitating climate action in light of economic growth.
Universities are an essential part of the UK's scientific strength, providing the evidence, expertise and innovation that help government make better decisions.
The visit also included a tour of SUSTAIN (Sustainability and Simulation Theatre for Academia and Industry). Based at Leeds General Infirmary, it will be the only facility of its kind in the UK accelerating new innovations for Net-Zero into clinical practice.
“My visit to Leeds has shown the value of bringing together researchers, clinicians, policymakers and industry to tackle some of the biggest challenges we face, from climate adaptation to sustainable healthcare,” said Dame Angela.
SUSTAIN, is a collaborative project, led by the sustainability team and surgical care observatory at the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) HealthTech Research Centre in Accelerated Surgical Care, in close partnership with Leeds Teaching Hospitals, the University of Leeds and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), as part of the Design for Life programme, which focuses on developing efficient, resilient, less wasteful healthcare systems.
Professor Nick Plant, Pro-Vice-Chancellor: Research and Innovation at the University of Leeds, said: “By combining our interdisciplinary strengths in climate science with economics, business, health, social sciences and public policy, we can have a positive impact in building a fairer and more sustainable future.
“Together with our partners across Yorkshire and the Humber, we are creating opportunities for our region by fostering collaboration between civil servants, academics and regional policymakers to help solve regional, national and global challenges.”
Further information
For more information, please contact Rebecca Hurrey at r.hurrey@leeds.ac.uk in the University of Leeds press office.
Main picture credit: Victor de Jesus.
