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Recently, the Government Chief Scientific Advisor, Sir David King, gave a presentation on the Universal Ethical Code for Scientists – Rigour, Respect and Responsibility. This is an initiative to encourage scientists to foster ethical research and to reflect on the wider impact of their work. It covers the natural sciences and also the wider disciplines of social, medical and veterinary sciences and mathematics.

Current developments in science, such as GM foods and nanotechnology, go hand in hand with ethical considerations. Therefore, discussions on the issues raised by scientific discoveries, incorporating the views and concerns of others, as set out in the Universal Ethical Code are recognised by the Agency as being important.

46% of us in the Agency are trained scientists; the majority with postgraduate qualifications. Sir David referred to the need for scientists to adopt best practices into their work to ensure public trust and confidence.

As Head of Profession for the Agency’s scientists, I am conscious of the responsibility we have as experts to earn trust and generate confidence.  The Agency’s core values and the commitment to sound governance have provided a good platform to earn this trust. I will be looking at how the Universal Ethical Code can add to this and further raise confidence in the integrity of our science and scientists.