Scientist named on advisory panel

Feb 8 2013

A Canadian scientist who has served on an international body studying climate change has been appointed to the Scottish Government's Council of Economic Advisers.

First Minister Alex Salmond announced Kirsty Duncan had been asked to join the expert body, which provides economic advice to ministers.

Dr Duncan, a Toronto-based health studies professor and an MP for the Liberal Party of Canada, has previously been a member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

She will now take part in the Council of Economic Advisers meeting in Edinburgh.

Mr Salmond said: "Dr Duncan's extensive experience and knowledge of health and environmental issues will make a valuable contribution to the work of the Council in unlocking the economic potential of the commercialisation of knowledge and to make Scotland a wealthier, greener and smarter nation."

Dr Duncan said it was an "honour and privilege to join such a distinguished panel", adding that she looked forward to serving on the Council.

"As a graduate of Edinburgh University it is a real pleasure to have the opportunity to give something back to Scotland," she said.