New Chief Scientific Advisor for DEFRA
The appointment of Professor Ian Boyd as the new Chief Scientific Advisor (CSA) to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has been welcomed by the DEFRA Secretary Caroline Spelman MP. Speaking to the House of Commons, Mrs Spelman also told the House that she was 'immensely grateful' to the previous incumbent Professor Sir Bob Watson (who held the post since 2007) for his contribution towards DEFRA's efforts in terms of research oversight and his advice on scientific matters.
Professor Boyd, who is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, has served as Director of the Scottish Oceans Institute at the University of St Andrews since being appointed in 2001 and was integral to the foundation of the Marine Alliance for Science and Technology in Scotland in 2009. He will assume office in September on a contract of three year's duration.
Commenting on the occasion of his appointment, Prof Boyd stated that “There are substantial future challenges ahead in bio-security, food security and in responding to the effects of climate change, but the UK is well placed to meet these challenges.”
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
