The Council, chaired by DESNZ Chief Scientific Adviser Professor Paul Monks, convened for the first time on Wednesday 9 July, bringing together leading scientists to support the government’s mission to deliver clean power by 2030 and accelerate progress towards Net Zero.
Dr Thompson, an expert in mathematical modelling and science-informed decision-making, joins a select group of prominent scientific figures tasked with providing independent, evidence-based advice to ministers. The Council will play a key role in shaping policy by offering insights across disciplines including climate science, energy systems, engineering, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies.
Commenting on her appointment, Dr Thompson said:
I’m delighted to be appointed to the DESNZ Science and Technology Advisory Council. Mathematical models are vital in analysis about future options for energy systems and Net Zero pathways, so I look forward to contributing my expertise on modelling and decision-making to the work of the Advisory Council and the Department.
The creation of the Council underscores the government’s emphasis on science and evidence-informed policy as central to its clean energy strategy. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband highlighted the importance of robust science in tackling the climate crisis, stating:
To give our mission the very best chance of success, the Science and Technology Advisory Council will draw on the knowledge and wisdom of some of the finest scientific minds of the nation – because clean power offers a huge prize of energy security, lower bills and good jobs.
The Council’s expert advice is expected to enhance the effectiveness of policymaking and ensure that decisions around the energy transition are grounded in the latest scientific research.
