Professor David Strain appointed Chief Medical Advisor at Department for Work and Pensions

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has appointed Professor David Strain as its new Chief Medical Advisor

Professor Strain – who will start in the position from the end of August – is Associate Professor of Cardiometabolic Health at the University of Exeter Medical School, as well as formerly holding academic lead and clinical co-lead roles in the NHS.

For the last two years, he has served as Thematic Research Lead for Health for the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST). 

He has also held a number of senior leadership roles, including Chair of the British Medical Association Board of Science and Medical Advisor to Action for ME.

As Chief Medical Advisor, Professor Strain will provide clinical leadership and expert advice to support the Department’s work, helping ensure clinical evidence and expertise inform policy and service delivery.

Professor David Strain said: “I’m delighted to be joining DWP as Chief Medical Advisor. 

“Throughout my career I have been passionate about turning evidence into practical improvements for people, particularly those living with long-term health conditions.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across the Department and its clinical community to strengthen the contribution clinical professionals make to DWP’s work and to the people we serve.”