Uk Government Office For Science

Science Advice Enables Huntington's Gene Therapy Breakthrough Treatment

NIHR, funded by the Department of Health and Social Care, supported uniQure's landmark clinical study of gene therapy AMT-130 for Huntington's disease. The Phase I/II trial showed that participants receiving higher doses experienced 75% less disease progression after three years. Around 8,000 people in the UK are living with Huntington's disease, a rare fatal condition caused by a single genetic mutation.

Routes for Academic Engagement with Government Science

The UK Government Office for Science has updated guidance on pathways for academic engagement with government science systems. The guidance covers STEM apprenticeships, exchange schemes, advisory groups and networks of experts, and government careers for scientists and engineers at all career stages.

Dr Jo Daniels Shaped Health and Social Care Workforce Policy

The UK Government Office for Science published a case study highlighting Dr Jo Daniels' UKRI Policy Fellowship within the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Dr Daniels shaped workforce research priorities, developed new NIHR funding calls, and contributed to pandemic preparedness frameworks for the health and social care sector. Her work informed the government's long-term workforce plan, NHS research capacity-building strategy, and 10-year Health Plan.

Scientific Experts Needed for Government Advisory Roles

The UK Government Office for Science is advertising high-profile positions for scientific experts to join government as Chief Scientific Advisers and Scientific Advisory Committee members. CSAs provide independent science advice to ministers, lead departmental science systems, and contribute to evidence-based decision making. SAC positions are part-time roles helping government departments access and interpret scientific information.

Rapid Technology Assessment: Advanced Composites for Climate Adaptation

The UK Government Office for Science published a Rapid Technology Assessment on advanced composites for climate adaptation. The report summarizes a project completed in October 2025 (information cut-off July 2025) and provides an introduction to advanced composites, recent developments, applications, opportunities, and challenges identified through research and expert discussions. It was reviewed by Professor Ian Kinloch of the Henry Royce Institute and Professor Milo Shaffer of Imperial College London.