New chief scientific officer joins Food Standards Scotland

Set to take up his post early next year, Gally will be responsible for providing expert advice on the development of the food body’s science and evidence strategy, as well as assurance and governance over its procedures for commissioning and evaluating research, risk analysis and the communication of science and public health advice. 

Commenting on his appointment, Gally said: “I am delighted to be taking up the role as chief scientific advisor at Food Standards Scotland, and look forward to supporting the organisation in developing its strong foundation in science to ensure all of its work on food safety and healthy eating continues to be underpinned by the most up to date and robust evidence.”​

Two decades of experience ​

Currently personal chair in microbial genetics at The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Gally has more than 20 years of leadership and scientific research experience with a foodborne infections and has contributed to more than a hundred academic publications.

Gally will take over the role from FSS’s first chief scientific advisor Norval Strachan, who completed his tenure with the food safety body earlier this year.

Geoff Ogle, FSS chief executive, thanked Strachan for his contribution to the organisation and welcomed Gally.

High quality scientific advice​

“David Gally’s appointment ensures a continuation of the high quality scientific advice and support previously provided by Professor Norval Strachan,”​ said Ogle.

“Science and the use of evidence are key in ensuring consumers trust us as an organisation and the advice we provide so it is fantastic to have someone of David’s calibre on board where he will help ensure that our scientific output is robust.”​

The appointment is the organisation’s second addition to its senior management team in recent months following the appointment of Julie Hesketh-Laird,​​ former chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers’ Organisation, as strategy director in November.