Science Secretary Liz Kendall has named Professor Sir Leszek Borysiewicz as her preferred candidate for Chair of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Sir Leszek has held senior leadership roles across research, medicine and higher education. He served as Chair of Cancer Research UK from 2016 to 2023, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge from 2010 to 2017, and Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council from 2007 to 2010.

Last year, he was awarded a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire for services to cancer research, clinical research, medicine and charities.