Our very own Professor Jas Pal Badyal from our top-rated Chemistry Department has been appointed as the new Chief Scientific Adviser for Wales Government.
Professor Badyal will provide first-hand science advice to the First Minister and Welsh Ministers in his new role.
Professor Badyal is an internationally recognised research chemist.
He is widely known for his pioneering research on the functionalisation of solid surfaces and deposition of functional nanolayers for technological and societal applications.
He has conducted ground-breaking research on the use of functional surfaces in everyday products to protect smartphones from water damage and tackle global environmental and health challenges for the benefit of the society.
Reflecting on his time at Durham so far, Professor Badyal said that his experience at Durham has enabled him to develop a research portfolio and knowledge for tackling some of the most important challenges facing society today.
Professor Badyal will be responsible for developing the Welsh Government’s science capability and advancing the country’s science projects.
He will also be supporting the growth of a strong science and research base in Wales while continuing in his role at Durham University.
On this milestone appointment, Professor Badyal said: “I am excited to be given this opportunity to contribute towards building a high-skill, high-tech economy, helping to bring positive impact and well-being for the people of Wales.
“Wales has great potential to become a world leader for technological innovations targeting some of the biggest challenges facing humanity today—including climate change, environmental degradation, renewable energy, food security, healthcare, and rising social inequality.”
Professor Stefan Przyborski, Acting Executive Dean for Science, said: “Jas Pal’s research is recognised around the world as ground-breaking in his field. His appointment is a great honour for Jas Pal himself, our Chemistry Department, our Science Faculty and Durham University, underlining the quality of the science here at Durham.”
Professor Badyal will officially take up the role in February 2023.
Our Department of Chemistry provides a thriving centre of scientific activity for teaching and world-leading research in the chemical sciences. Ranked 5th in the UK in The Guardian University Guide 2022, we deliver high-quality teaching and offer the opportunity for students to be actively involved in a department with an international reputation for cutting-edge science.
Feeling inspired? Visit our Chemistry webpages to learn more about our postgraduate and undergraduate programmes.
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