Professor Sir John Beringer, Pro Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Kathy Sykes, Professor of Public Engagement in Science and Engineering, have been invited by the Prime Minister to become members of the Council for Science and Technology – a top-level advisory body whose remit includes science education, research, knowledge transfer and science communication.

Professor Beringer said: ‘This is an excellent opportunity to influence the Government’s strategy for science, engineering and technology, which has important implications for the UK’s economic and social progress.’

Professor Sykes added: ‘Many issues that we face in society involve science, whether to commercialise GM crops, use MMR vaccinations, or how we meet tomorrow’s energy needs without destroying the environment.

‘I’m thrilled to be appointed onto this advisory group, and really hope we'll help to get politicians, scientists and the public listening better to each other, to help decision-makers to make wiser choices for science, society and the planet.’