The UK government is taking significant steps to secure the nation’s position as a global leader in science and technology. Seven prominent figures, including astronaut Tim Peake and McLaren founder Ron Dennis, have been appointed as the inaugural members of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) Start-Up Board.
Meet the Science & Tech Dream Team:
Shonnel Malani – Managing Partner at Advent International and Chair at Cobham and Ultra Electronics, leading the board.
Tim Peake CMG – Former European Space Agency astronaut and British Army Air Corps helicopter pilot.
Ron Dennis CBE – Founding shareholder and ex-CEO of McLaren Technology Group, now Chairman of Podium Analytics.
Baroness Alison Wolf CBE – King’s College London professor, cross-bench House of Lords peer, and former government skills adviser.
Melissa Di Donato – Ex-CEO of SUSE Software, senior advisor at Hg Capital, and board member at Porsche AG and JPMorgan Chase.
Saul Klein – Co-founder and managing partner of Phoenix Court (LocalGlobe, Latitude), Seedcamp, and ZINC.
Professor Jason Chin FRS – Cambridge fellow and head of chemical and synthetic biology at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology.
The DSIT Board also includes Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Professor Dame Angela McLean DBE FRS. The search is underway for a National Technology Adviser to complete the team.
This powerhouse board will guide DSIT through its critical first year, providing strategic advice to leverage government resources and private sector expertise in support of the UK’s science, technology, and innovation ambitions. The goal is to boost the economy, create jobs, and improve lives across the country.
The appointments follow DSIT’s recent announcements of substantial funding, directing hundreds of millions into life sciences, innovation accelerators, laboratories, and unveiling strategies focused on wireless technology, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.
Top Experts Sound Off on the New Board:
Science and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said: “I want the brightest minds from science and tech at the heart of government decision-making to secure the UK as a science and technology superpower. These appointments show how serious this government is about delivering innovation and collaboration.”
Shonnel Malani stated: “I’m excited to help DSIT deliver its ambitious plan to make the UK a science and tech superpower by 2030 – driving innovation that transforms lives and grows our economy.”
Tim Peake CMG commented: “Joining the board is a thrill. My experience as an astronaut and test pilot has shown me how critical science and innovation are. I’m keen to inspire the next generation as the UK ramps up on the global stage.”
Ron Dennis CBE added: “After years in competitive industries driven by innovation, I’m eager to bring that expertise to support this vital department and help steer a future-focused strategy.”
Baroness Alison Wolf CBE remarked: “It’s an honour to support DSIT. The department’s work will be critical for the future of UK science and technology – and for all our futures.”
Melissa Di Donato said: “Britain’s innovation history runs deep. I look forward to driving private investment and helping the UK become the best place to start and grow a tech business.”
Saul Klein noted: “Having worked across the UK, Europe, Israel and the US for 25 years, I’m excited to support DSIT in unlocking science and tech innovations to tackle challenges like sustainable energy, healthcare and inequality.”
Professor Jason Chin FRS expressed: “I’m delighted to help DSIT focus on key scientific discoveries that open up new growth and sustainability opportunities.”
Next Steps for DSIT:
The non-executive board will work alongside DSIT’s government experts to enhance the UK’s science and technology policymaking. New initiatives such as the Expert Exchange are already integrating top talent from academia and industry into Whitehall.
Permanent board positions will be filled through a transparent recruitment process later this year as DSIT solidifies its role in driving the UK’s global innovation leadership.
For more information on DSIT’s ambitious plans and funding developments, stay tuned.
Originally published by UKNIP.
