Wales to get scientific adviser

Promotion of science is "fundamental" to Wales future, says Mr Morgan

Wales' first chief scientific adviser (CSA) is to be recruited by the Welsh Assembly Government.

The role will involve promoting maths, engineering and science technology, which, officials hope, will lead more young people to pursue science careers.

The announcement follows a review by Professor Christopher Pollock into the creation of such a post last year.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan said the promotion of science was "fundamental" to the development of the economy.

Mr Morgan said Wales' CSA would have "direct access" to him.

He added: "The promotion of science in Wales is fundamental to developing our mission as a world-respected knowledge-led economy.

"Building up our science base, and faster commercialisation of the science base we already have, are two of the keys to that.

"Wales is fortunate to already possess some of the finest scientific research and medical technology departments in Europe, with an impressive track record of innovation - including automated DNA testing, dispersive X-ray spectrometry and 3D intelligent sensor technology - and of course, the pioneering work of Professor Sir Martin Evans, awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine for his research into stem cell technology."

A professor of mammalian genetics at Cardiff University, Mr Evans has been awarded the 2007 Nobel Prize for medicine for his work on stem cells.