The UK government has named its preferred candidate to be the next chair of the country’s national funding agency, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
Leszek Borysiewicz, an immunologist with previous experience heading several high-profile research organisations, is expected to take on the role this summer. He will succeed Andrew Mackenzie, a petrochemicals industry executive who has served as chair of UKRI since 2021.
An expert on viral immunology, Borysiewicz’s work on a human papillomavirus vaccine is credited with enabling routine immunisation for girls against cervical cancer. His previous leadership roles across the research sector include serving as chair of Cancer Research UK from 2016 to 2023, vice-chancellor of the University of Cambridge from 2010 to 2017 and as chief executive of the Medical Research Council from 2007 to 2010.
‘Professor Sir Leszek Borysiewicz will help ensure our record public investment in research and innovation supports economic growth, backs the industries of the future and improves lives across the UK,’ said science secretary Liz Kendall, who selected Borysiewicz as the government’s preferred candidate for the UKRI role. The appointment will be scrutinised by the House of Commons science committee this month, before being signed off.
‘I am delighted to be the preferred candidate as chair of UKRI to help the UK effort to promote growth as well as being an international leader across the whole spectrum of research and innovation,’ added Borysiewicz. ‘I look forward to engaging with the myriad of research communities in all sectors, as well as supporting UKRI in delivering this exciting agenda of driving economic growth, strengthening the UK’s global competitiveness and improving lives.’
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