Prof Ian Young to step down as DoH Chief Scientific Adviser
Date published:
Department of Health Permanent Secretary Mike Farrar has paid tribute to Professor Ian Young, who is stepping down as the Department’s Chief Scientific Adviser.
Prof Young is leaving to take up the role of Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Prof Young has been with the Department of Health for 10 years. He played a leading role in its response to the Covid-19 pandemic, providing valuable advice and guidance to the then Health Minister, NI Executive, and wider public. In addition, he has led on Research and Development and has been Head of Profession for the Scientific Workforce in Health and Social Care.
Mr Farrar said: “Ian has made a huge contribution to public service and the Department of Health. His wisdom and experience supported the Health & Social Care (HSC) system through Covid, while his commitment to Research and Development will stand the Department in great stead to meet its future challenges. We wish him well for his future at the Food Standards Agency.”
Prof Young joins the FSA in a part-time capacity, while maintaining his current roles of Consultant Chemical Pathologist at Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and Professor of Medicine at Queen’s University in Belfast, where he previously directed the Centre for Public Health.
As well as his position with the Department of Health, Prof Young currently serves as Director of Research for Health and Social Care, and chairs the UK Government's Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition. He will also step down from each of these roles.
Prof Young said: “It has been a privilege to work with colleagues in the Department of Health and across Northern Ireland Government and the Health and Social Care system over the last few years to provide scientific advice and evidence to inform important policy decisions.
“While I am sorry to leave, I look forward to working with the FSA to help to ensure that best science and evidence can inform the safety and authenticity of the food we eat.”
Prof Young will take up his post with the FSA in the New Year.
The Department will shortly begin the process to appoint a new Chief Scientific Adviser.
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