Sir Alasdair Breckenridge has been confirmed as chair of the UK Department of Health’s newly established Emerging Science and Bioethics Advisory Committee.
The unpaid appointment is for two years.
The committee will be responsible for providing advice to UK health departments on emerging healthcare scientific developments and their ethical, legal, social and economic implications.
Professor Dame Sally Davies, chief medical officer, said: ‘I am delighted that Sir Alasdair has agreed to chair this important new committee. He brings with him a level of experience that is difficult to match, plus a reputation for delivering high calibre debate and advice on serious scientific issues.’
Sir Alasdair said he looks forward to establishing the committee as a key contributor to the wider debate on science and healthcare.
Sir Alasdair is also chair of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).