The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has announced that Professor Jacob George has taken up his role as its first Chief Medical and Scientific Officer.
This newly created role underscores the MHRA’s commitment to scientific excellence and innovation, supporting the UK’s life sciences ambitions while ensuring patient safety remains paramount.
As CMSO, Professor George will lead the Agency’s science strategy and oversee its scientific, research and innovation activities, driving forward initiatives that strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in life sciences.
Commenting on his role, Professor George said:
“I am delighted to be joining the MHRA at such an important time for science and regulation.
“The Agency plays a vital role in protecting patient safety while supporting innovation, and I look forward to working with colleagues and partners across the UK to strengthen scientific excellence and public trust.”
Professor George brings a wealth of experience, having served as Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine and Therapeutics at the University of Dundee and as a consultant physician in NHS Tayside. His distinguished career includes:
- Membership of the Delivery Group and Management Board for the Innovative Licensing and Access Pathway (ILAP)
- Co-Chair of the NIHR Capital Investment Funding Committee
- Senior Health Technology Advisor to NICE
Internationally, Professor George has served since 2017 as an International Expert Advisory Member of the Malaysian Scientific Review Panel for Phase I Clinical Trials, appointed by the Malaysian Minister of Health.
Lawrence Tallon, Chief Executive of the MHRA, also said:
“We are delighted to welcome Professor Jacob George as our Chief Medical and Scientific Officer. Jacob’s expertise and leadership in science and innovation will empower us to continue to set new standards as a world-class regulator, safeguarding public health and accelerating access to medicines and medical devices across all four nations of the UK.”
The creation of the CMSO role reflects the MHRA’s ambition to combine cutting-edge science with robust regulatory standards, ensuring that innovation translates into safe, effective treatments for patients.
Image credit: The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency
