The University’s Centre for Science and Policy (CSaP) has appointed Dr Robert Doubleday – formerly its Head of Research – as the new Executive Director
Formed in 2009 to build on the work of the Cambridge University Government Policy Programme, CSaP promotes engagement between researchers and policy professionals.
Dr Doubleday has been Head of Research at CSaP since September 2011, during which time he built up an active research programme as a core strand of CSaP’s activities – including a large-scale collaboration with biodiversity scientists and a study of the changing role of Chief Scientific Advisers. CSaP research has already led to influential publications in Nature and PLoS One.
An internationally recognised expert on scientific advice, Dr Doubleday has worked in government on policies to strengthen engagement between academia and public policy for the UK Chief Scientific Adviser.
“It’s a huge privilege to be given the opportunity to lead CSaP during this exciting period of growth,” said Dr Doubleday. “I look forward to working with CSaP’s outstanding science and policy network. I am ambitious for CSaP’s network to grow internationally and make substantial contributions to better public policy.”
Previous research roles for Dr Doubleday have included leading a Wellcome Trust-funded research project on the public policy dimensions of nanotechnology, and working on public engagement at the Cambridge Nanoscience Centre. He has a degree in chemistry from Imperial College, a master’s in science policy from Sussex University, and a PhD on public controversy over GM crops from UCL. Dr Doubleday has also studied science policy as a Fulbright Scholar at the Harvard Kennedy School.
David Cleevely, CSaP’s Founding Director, welcomed the appointment:
CSaP is going from strength to strength. Rob brings insight from his work in academia, government and industry, and combines this with a deep commitment CSaP’s mission. His international reputation makes him ideally placed to build our research, extend our networks, and create value for government and academia.”
“CSaP’s success is down to its unique network linking science and policy,” said Dr Doubleday. “I intend to work collaboratively with CSaP’s network to build a sense of collective ownership. Our growing science and policy research will continue to generate insights that improve engagement between academia and government.”