We are delighted to share that Professor Malcolm (Calum) G. Semple OBE (1986) has been appointed as the Scottish Government's Chief Scientific Advisor, starting in August 2025 for an initial three-year term, on secondment from the University of Liverpool.

Calum is a Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and Professor of Outbreak Medicine and Child Health at the University of Liverpool. He has also held a number of key advisory roles during public health emergencies, most notably serving as a UK Government adviser during the Swine Flu pandemic in 2009, on the World Health Organisation Scientific Advisory Committee during the Ebola Emergency, and as a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies during the Covid pandemic.

The main responsibilities of Calum’s new role include providing independent scientific advice to Scottish Government Ministers with regards to issues of strategic importance, championing Scotland’s world-leading science and research base, inspiring the next generation of scientists, and encouraging diversity in the STEM workforce.

Speaking of his appointment, Calum says, “I am delighted to have this opportunity to serve the people and government of Scotland by providing evidence and scientific advice to support policymakers. I especially look forward to working with Scotland’s vibrant communities of scientists and engineers in schools, universities, and industries, who inspire and drive the innovation essential for economic growth.”

Humble as ever, he is also keen to recognise those who supported and inspired him along the way. “A senior appointment such as this is as much a result of teamwork as it is an honour, and Loretto was part of my team. Every scientist has one or two teachers who inspired and encouraged their pursuits. I was fortunate and remember having five at Loretto. The Science, Maths and Design Technology teaching I received at the School from N. Gavin C. McDowall (Hon.), William H. Durran (1955), Clifford K. Sparks (Hon.), Derek Grainge (Hon.) and Stephen J. Edwards (Hon.) was formative and inspiring, hence #IFLS. I believe this was because they had all spent some time in industry, and their teaching was informed by real-world experience. They had a talent for demonstrating the practical application of their science, doing so in a way that didn't make first-principle deep learners like me and James C.H. Henderson (1986) feel inadequate in front of the brighter sparks. James and I remain in regular contact.”

Calum’s appointment is a huge honour and one that he has undoubtedly earned through his incredibly important work over the years, his dedication to the field, and his outstanding ability to communicate. Congratulations, Calum, from all the School and Society, and we wish you all the best in this new role.