EAM’s Response to the Government’s New Science and Technology Plan 6th March 2023 The Academy’s President has expressed strong endorsement of the UK government’s newly announced Science and Technology Plan, recognizing it as a critical framework for advancing the nation’s leadership in research and innovation. The President emphasizes that this plan is essential for driving scientific progress, fostering technological breakthroughs, and addressing the major challenges facing society today. Strategic Vision for Science and Technology The Science and Technology Plan lays out a strategic vision for the UK to become a global leader in key areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. The Academy’s President welcomes this ambition, noting that sustained investment in these cutting-edge fields is vital for ensuring the UK’s long-term competitiveness on the world stage. The President highlights the importance of aligning this plan with broader national objectives, including economic growth, public health, and environmental sustainability. By integrating science and technology into these areas, the UK can achieve significant advancements that not only drive innovation but also improve the quality of life for all citizens. Fostering Collaboration and Innovation A key component of the government’s plan is the emphasis on collaboration across sectors, including academia, industry, and government. The Academy’s President supports this approach, stressing that partnerships are crucial for translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit society. The plan’s focus on fostering an innovation-friendly environment, where researchers and entrepreneurs can thrive, is seen as a positive step towards creating a dynamic and resilient research ecosystem. The President also underscores the need for the plan to support the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving the UK’s scientific and technological ambitions forward. This includes investing in education and training programs that equip the next generation of scientists and engineers with the knowledge and skills needed to lead in an increasingly complex and interdisciplinary research landscape. Addressing Global Challenges The Academy’s President points out that the government’s Science and Technology Plan comes at a critical time, as the world faces a range of pressing challenges, including climate change, pandemics, and digital transformation. The President commends the plan’s focus on addressing these global issues through targeted research and innovation, and calls for continued efforts to ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of international scientific collaboration. The President emphasizes that tackling these challenges requires a coordinated and sustained effort across all levels of government, as well as close cooperation with international partners. By leveraging the UK’s strengths in science and technology, the plan can help to deliver solutions that have a lasting impact both domestically and globally. Conclusion The Academy’s President views the government’s new Science and Technology Plan as a bold and necessary step toward securing the UK’s position as a global leader in research and innovation. The plan’s focus on collaboration, investment, and addressing global challenges is aligned with the Academy’s mission to advance medical science and improve public health. The President looks forward to supporting the implementation of this plan and to working with all stakeholders to ensure its success.
