Former Innovate UK chief Ruth McKernan elected Vice-President
The Academy of Medical Sciences announces the appointment of Dr Ruth McKernan CBE FMedSci as its Vice-President (Non-Clinical). A renowned neuroscientist, life sciences leader and former Innovate UK Chief Executive, she will take up the role on 3 December.
Dr McKernan brings extensive experience spanning academia, industry and public sector innovation. Throughout her career, Dr McKernan has helped drive advances in research, drug discovery and translation, helping to advance understanding of neurological conditions while supporting the translation of scientific discoveries into tangible health benefits.
Dr McKernan’s research in neuropharmacology has contributed to major advances in pain research and drug discovery. She has authored more than 120 peer reviewed publications and patents, reflecting a distinguished scientific career that has combined research excellence with a strong commitment to innovation.
Alongside her scientific achievements, Dr McKernan has held several senior leadership roles across the UK’s research and innovation landscape, including as Chief Executive of Innovate UK and Senior Vice-President at Pfizer. Through these roles, she has championed collaboration between academia, industry, investors and policymakers, helping strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in life sciences research and translation.
Elected to the Academy’s Fellowship in 2015, Dr McKernan has made significant contributions to supporting the UK’s research and innovation landscape. She is a founding investor in several early-stage biotechnology companies and co-founded the UK BioIndustry Association’s Women in Biotech initiative, which works to improve representation and leadership opportunities for women across the life sciences sector.
