Sir Patrick Vallance, the government’s chief scientific advisor, has been announced as the next chairman of London’s Natural History Museum, succeeding Lord Stephen Green.
Vallance will join the board in October 2022, taking over as chair in early 2023. “I have loved the museum since first visiting as a young child,” he said. “It inspired me to pursue a career in science and continues to inspire wonder in visitors of all ages as well as being a world leading scientific research institute.”
He has been a key figure in informing the government’s response to Covid-19, most notably around understanding the risks and mitigation of the virus. Vallance was chief scientific adviser to COP26, and also leads the Net Zero Innovation Board.
“The Natural History Museum is well known as a much-loved visitor attraction but is also a world-leading scientific research centre working on solutions for the planetary emergency – from biodiversity loss to climate change,” said Dr Douglas Gurr, NHM‘s director.
Vallance takes over as chair in early 2023
“We are thrilled that Sir Patrick will be joining to drive forward our mission of creating advocates for the planet and building a world in which both people and planet can thrive,” Gurr added.
Vallance served as president of research and development at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) from 2012 to 2017. During this time, many new medicines were discovered and approved for use, for diseases including cancer, asthma and HIV.
Prior to working for GSK, Vallance was a clinical academic, professor of medicine, and led the division of medicine at UCL. Additionally, he was a consultant physician in the NHS.
“The trustees were looking for proven leadership, excellent communication skills, a commitment to inclusion, and a passion for the museum’s educational, scientific and cultural role,” said Hilary Newiss, trustee and chair of the appointment committee
“Patrick was the outstanding candidate and we are delighted to be welcoming him to the board.”
Images: NHM