Concerns over UKRI’s future research agenda under new chair

Scientists fear Andrew Mackenzie’s background in mining and oil will mean little action on climate

Several academics have raised concerns about the links to oil, gas and mining companies of the man selected to be the next chair of UK Research and Innovation.

On 8 June business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng named Andrew Mackenzie as his preferred candidate. Mackenzie is currently company chair of the multinational oil and gas giant Shell, following a seven-year spell as chief executive of one of the world’s biggest mining companies, BHP.