Corporate report: Government Science and Engineering profession strategy 2026

Ensuring the GSE profession can support its people to place excellent science and engineering at the heart of government decisions for a better future.

Science and engineering equip us with the tools to help us understand our changing world and shape decisions to create a more resilient future for the United Kingdom. Whether it is rising to the challenge of climate change, shaping our society and public services to support an ageing population, or embracing the transformative potential of new technologies – from artificial intelligence to innovative energy solutions – science and engineering have an important role to play.

These developments will affect every part of our lives. We need the very best science and engineering expertise to help us ask the right questions, provide evidence, and make decisions that will stand the test of time.

Bringing together people with different experiences, skills, and viewpoints improves our profession and our science advice. Diverse evidence matters – it helps us see the full picture, challenge our assumptions, and make choices that are fair, inclusive and effective for everyone.

This strategy sets out how the Government Science and Engineering profession will put science and engineering at the heart of government decision making.

The strategy is built on four themes: career development and leadership, skills, recognition and reward, talent and interchange, and connection and community. Each has measurable goals designed to improve capability, encourage inclusion, and support professional growth across government. Equity, diversity and inclusion are embedded throughout, reflecting the commitment to a fair and supportive environment for all members.

As Head of the GSE Profession, my ambition is to build a community that is ready for what comes next: curious, skilled, and confident to lead.

Professor Dame Angela McLean
Government Chief Scientific Adviser and Head of the GSE Profession