Professor Sir Ian Chapman, the head of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), will become the next CEO of the UK’s research and development organisation, with a focus on fulfilling the government’s growth plans.

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is the country’s largest public research funder, with a budget of £9bn per year, giving it a central role in ensuring public funding is invested in ambitious, pioneering research that will benefit the whole of the UK and provide a clear return on investment for hardworking taxpayers.

Sir Ian is set to lead its team in supporting thousands of researchers and innovators in developing solutions from life-saving medicines to protecting our environment – ultimately making a visible, positive difference to people’s lives and supporting the missions at the heart of the Government’s Plan for Change.

During his time as CEO of the UKAEA, Chapman has led the transition from an organisation rooted in R&D to one that is now also delivering a major infrastructure project to design and build a prototype powerplant; driving inward investment and economic growth; and enabling development of a skilled workforce and supply chain.

“Growing the economy is this government’s number one mission and taking full advantage of the innovative ideas, talent and facilities across our country is key to reaching that goal and improving lives across the UK,” science minister Lord Vallance said.

“Sir Ian’s leadership experience, scientific expertise and academic achievements make him an exceptionally strong candidate to lead UKRI in pursuing ambitious, curiosity-driven research, as well as innovations that will unlock new benefits for the UK’s people and drive our Plan for Change.

“We also thank Dame Ottoline Leyser ahead of her stepping down this summer, recognising her pivotal work in guiding UKRI through challenging times, notably during the Covid pandemic and through the UK’s return to participation in Horizon Europe.”

Chapman is anticipated to take his role in the summer, replacing Professor Dame Ottoline Lyser, who was in charge of  UKRI since May 2020.

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“I am excited to be joining an excellent team at UKRI focussed on improving the lives and livelihoods of UK citizens,” Chapman said.

“Research and innovation must be central to the prosperity of our society and our economy, so UKRI can shape the future of the country.

“I was tremendously fortunate to represent UKAEA, an organisation at the forefront of global research and innovation of fusion energy, and I look forward to building on those experiences to enable the wider UK research and innovation sector.”