Trinity's Prof. Aoife McLysaght is appointed Government Science Advisor

Professor Aoife McLysaght, Chair of Evolutionary Genetics in Trinity College Dublin (above, centre), has been appointed to the role of Government Science Advisor. 

The role will be part of new science advice structures that will assist in informing responses to complex and challenging policy issues.  The Government Science Advisor will chair the National Science Advice Forum and provide cross-sectoral and multi-disciplinary science advice to the government. 

Her apppointment was announced today by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Patrick O’Donovan (above on left, with Taoiseach Simon Harris on right).

Professor McLysaght, who will be based in the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, said: “I am very excited to be starting this new role and to have the opportunity to work with the many extraordinary people across the civil service.  

 “We are incredibly lucky in Ireland to benefit from the wisdom and generosity of so many extraordinary scientists and researchers who already contribute to society in a diversity of ways.  

“I am looking forward to engaging with them and other stakeholders in working together to enhance and inform evidence-based decision making and planning in Irish public life.” 

Minister O’Donovan said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Professor McLysaght to the role of Government Science Advisor.

“Professor McLysaght has an outstanding academic record and has a strong international reputation. She will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to this role as we develop and communicate our responses to the challenges ahead. 

“I am looking forward to working closely with Professor McLysaght on policy issues and also how we can better communicate scientific issues to a general audience.

“It is essential that we have the best scientific evidence available when addressing key challenges such as climate change and AI and that the policy decisions we are taking are fully informed by quality science advice. 

“These new science advice structures will bring Ireland in line with countries in Europe and beyond who have also tailored advisory structures to meet their needs and will maximise Ireland’s participation in international science advice organisations.” 

The selection process for the Government Science Advisor took place through the Top Level Appointments Committee. Candidates were sought with an internationally recognised scientific background with strong leadership and stakeholder engagement experience.  

Professor Aoife McLysaght is a professor of Genetics at Trinity College Dublin and has led a research group in Trinity College Dublin for over 20 years. In the course of this work Professor McLysaght has managed cumulative research income from competitive awards in excess of €5.5m. 

ENDS

Media Contact:

Catherine O’Mahony | Media Relations | catherine.omahony@tcd.ie