Professor Sir Ian Chapman Appointed New CEO Of UK Research And Innovation To Drive Economic Growth.

Professor Sir Ian Chapman has been appointed as the new CEO of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), effective this summer. With a background as CEO of the UK Atomic Energy Authority since 2016 and strong academic links, Sir Ian will lead UKRI’s efforts to drive economic growth through research and innovation to improve lives. After Dame Ottoline Leyser announced her intention to step down, his appointment follows an open recruitment process.

Appointment of Professor Sir Ian Chapman as UKRI CEO

Professor Sir Ian Chapman has been appointed as the new CEO of UKRI, effective this summer. This appointment marks a significant step in enhancing the organization’s role in driving innovation and economic growth through research.

Sir Ian brings extensive experience from his tenure as CEO at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), where he spearheaded advancements in fusion energy. His leadership has positioned the UK as a global leader in fusion development, showcasing how targeted R&D can foster technological breakthroughs with wide-reaching benefits.

Under Sir Ian’s guidance, UKRI will focus on strategic initiatives such as increasing participation in Horizon Europe and shaping long-term industrial strategies. These efforts aim to unlock the potential of research to drive economic growth by addressing key challenges and fostering collaboration across sectors.

The transition is underway, with Tim Bestwick set to serve as interim CEO at UKAEA while a permanent replacement is sought. Dame Ottoline Leyser’s tenure has laid a strong foundation for UKRI, navigating challenges like the pandemic and ensuring continued research momentum.

Sir Ian’s expertise and vision are expected to strengthen UKRI’s impact further, ensuring that research continues to be a cornerstone of economic growth and innovation in the UK.

Background and Previous Role at UKAEA

Professor Sir Ian Chapman’s appointment as CEO of UKRI represents a pivotal moment in advancing the organisation’s mission to drive innovation and foster economic growth through cutting-edge research. With a distinguished career at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Sir Ian has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing fusion energy technologies. His tenure there has elevated the UK’s standing as a global leader in fusion development and underscored the transformative potential of ambitious R&D initiatives.

Sir Ian’s deep understanding of fusion energy and its broader implications for technological progress aligns seamlessly with UKRI’s goal of addressing critical challenges through collaborative research. His extensive academic contributions, including over 100 journal publications, further highlight his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and its practical applications. This expertise will be instrumental in shaping UKRI’s future strategies, particularly in enhancing participation in Horizon Europe and developing long-term industrial policies.

The transition at UKAEA, with Tim Bestwick set to serve as interim CEO, ensures continuity while a permanent successor is identified. Dame Ottoline Leyser’s leadership has provided a robust foundation for UKRI, navigating through significant challenges like the pandemic and ensuring sustained research momentum. Sir Ian’s vision and experience are poised to build on this legacy, reinforcing UKRI’s role as a driving force behind innovation and economic growth in the UK.

Dame Ottoline Leyser’s Tenure as UKRI CEO

Dame Ottoline Leyser’s tenure as UKRI CEO has been marked by significant achievements that have strengthened the organisation’s role in driving innovation and supporting the UK’s research landscape. Her leadership during challenging times, including navigating the complexities of the pandemic, ensured that research continued to thrive and contribute to national recovery. Dame Ottoline’s efforts also played a crucial role in securing the UK’s return to Horizon Europe, reinforcing the country’s position as a global leader in collaborative research. Under her guidance, UKRI has established a robust foundation for future growth, positioning itself as a key driver of economic development through cutting-edge research.

Sir Ian Chapman’s appointment as CEO of UKRI represents a pivotal moment in advancing the organisation’s mission to drive innovation and foster economic growth through research. With his extensive experience at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Sir Ian has demonstrated exceptional leadership, particularly in advancing fusion energy technologies. His tenure there has elevated the UK’s standing as a global leader in fusion development and underscored the transformative potential of ambitious R&D initiatives.

Recruitment Process for New CEO

Sir Ian Chapman’s appointment as CEO of UKRI represents a pivotal moment in advancing the organisation’s mission to drive innovation and foster economic growth through cutting-edge research. With a distinguished career at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Sir Ian has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing fusion energy technologies. His tenure there has elevated the UK’s standing as a global leader in fusion development and underscored the transformative potential of ambitious R&D initiatives.

Sir Ian’s deep understanding of fusion energy and its broader implications for technological progress aligns seamlessly with UKRI’s goal of addressing critical challenges through collaborative research. His extensive academic contributions, including over 100 journal publications, further highlight his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and its practical applications. This expertise will be instrumental in shaping UKRI’s future strategies, particularly in enhancing participation in Horizon Europe and developing long-term industrial policies.

The transition process at UKAEA is well underway, with Tim Bestwick set to serve as interim CEO while a permanent replacement is sought. Dame Ottoline Leyser’s tenure has laid a strong foundation for UKRI, navigating through challenges like the pandemic and ensuring continued research momentum. Sir Ian’s vision and experience are expected to further strengthen UKRI’s impact, ensuring that research continues to be a cornerstone of economic growth and innovation in the UK.