New Leadership Appointments at UK Health Security Agency
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced the appointment of Dr. Gail Carson as its new Chief Medical Advisor, effective January 2027. Dr. Carson brings with her an impressive portfolio, having collaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO) on a range of critical health crises, including Ebola, Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever, H1N1, SARS, and H5N1.
Currently serving as the Director of Network Development for the International Severe Acute Respiratory and Emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) at the University of Oxford, a role she has held since 2011, Dr. Carson has been instrumental in establishing this global network. ISARIC comprises investigator-led clinical research networks spread across more than 130 countries, aimed at leveraging clinical research to inform patient care and policy during public health emergencies.
In addition to her current role, Dr. Carson has previously chaired the Global Outbreak Alert & Response Network (GOARN), another WHO initiative designed to enhance global health security through coordinated responses to outbreaks.
Dr. Carson’s Vision for Public Health
Upon her appointment, Dr. Carson expressed enthusiasm for joining UKHSA, highlighting her extensive experience in outbreak preparedness and response. She emphasised the importance of the agency’s expertise, stating, “Together, we will continue to strengthen our capabilities, adapt to new challenges, and ensure that we are ready for whatever comes next.”
Dr. Carson looks forward to collaborating with colleagues both domestically and internationally, as the focus remains on continuous evolution and preparedness in the face of emerging health challenges.
Professor Robin May’s Permanent Role
In a related announcement, UKHSA has confirmed the permanent appointment of Professor Robin May as its Chief Scientific Officer. Having served as the interim CSO since September 2025, Professor May is also a Professor of Infectious Disease at the University of Birmingham and previously held the position of Chief Scientific Advisor at the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
With a robust background in microbiology and infectious diseases, along with experience in scientific risk assessment and evidence-based policy development, Professor May is well-equipped to drive the agency’s scientific agenda forward.
Commitment to Public Health
Reflecting on his tenure, Professor May remarked on the essential work being carried out by UKHSA to safeguard public health. He stated, “This is a time of great challenge, but also great opportunity, within public health, and I am looking forward to doing my part to help ensure UKHSA is ready to face whatever challenges the future may hold.”
Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Executive of UKHSA, warmly welcomed both Dr. Carson and Professor May to their respective roles, praising the wealth of clinical and scientific knowledge they bring. She noted that their combined expertise will be invaluable in advancing UKHSA’s mission to protect the public from health threats and expressed her eagerness to work alongside them both.