Chief Scientific Adviser

Responsibilities

The Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) ensures that science informs policy development across all areas of government work.

The CSA works closely with the Scottish Science Advisory Council to make sure ministers and officials have access to the best scientific advice.

The role also involves championing Scotland's world-leading science base and its potential to benefit the economy, people and environment.

The CSA leads the Office of the Chief Scientific Adviser which is responsible for:

• raising awareness within government of how science can add value to policy development and delivery
• funding activities that help inspire our next generation of scientists and allow people of all ages to find out more about science, at science centres, science festivals and school science activities
• fostering closer links between government and scientists through initiatives including the development of Areas of Research Interest
• helping government scientists through activities, networks and developing guidance and standards

Biography

Calum grew up in Glasgow and Edinburgh. He is a doctor who specialises in treating children with breathing problems and studying serious infectious diseases.

He studied medicine at Oxford University and has a PhD in Clinical Virology from University College London.

In 2006, he became a Consultant at Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool, where he treats children with respiratory conditions. He's also a Professor at the University of Liverpool, focusing on outbreak medicine and child health. He continues these roles on a reduced basis during his time with the Scottish Government, which is part-time.

For over 30 years, Calum has studied serious viral outbreaks. He helped set up an international organisation in 2012 that brings together experts to tackle severe respiratory infections. His research has covered diseases including HIV/AIDS, flu, Ebola, Mpox, and COVID-19.

Between 2014 and 2016, he led medical research in Sierra Leone during the Ebola outbreak. For this work, he and his team received the Queen's Ebola Medal. He also won a Commonwealth Award in 2019 for his continued support of Ebola survivors.

Calum has advised governments and the World Health Organization during major health crises, including the 2009 Swine Flu pandemic and the COVID-19 pandemic. He was awarded an OBE in 2020 for his work during COVID-19.

Outside work, Calum enjoys spending time with his family and dogs, keeping bees, playing the bagpipes, and fly fishing.