William Stewart (biologist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Stewart
FRS FRSE
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| Born | 6 June 1935 |
| Alma mater | University of Glasgow |
| Known for | Government Chief Scientific Adviser |
| Spouse(s) | Elizabeth Smales |
| Awards | Fellow of the Royal Society Knight Bachelor |
| Scientific career | |
| Thesis | Studies in the biological fixation of nitrogen (1961) |
Sir William Duncan Paterson Stewart, born on June 6, 1935, is a very important scientist. He was the President of the Royal Society of Edinburgh from 1999 to 2002. He also led the Microbiological Research Authority, which deals with tiny living things.
Contents
Early Life and Schooling
William Stewart went to school at Bowmore Junior Secondary School and Dunoon Grammar School. He then studied at the University of Glasgow.
University Studies
At the University of Glasgow, he earned several important degrees. These included a Bachelor of Science, a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and a Doctor of Science. These degrees show his deep knowledge in scientific fields.
A Career in Science and Government
Sir William Stewart has held many important jobs in science and government. He helped guide the UK government on scientific matters.
Chief Scientific Adviser
From 1990 to 1995, Sir William was the Chief Scientific Adviser. This meant he gave scientific advice to the government's leaders. He was also the first head of the UK Office of Science and Technology. This office helps to guide science and technology efforts in the country.
Leading Important Boards
Stewart has been the Chairman of the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB). This group looks after safety from radiation. He also chaired the Health Protection Agency, which works to keep people healthy and safe from diseases.
Other Key Roles
- He helped create the Government's Technology Foresight Programme in 1995. This program looked at future science and technology trends.
- He led an expert group that studied mobile phones and health. Their report came out in 2000.
- He is a biologist, meaning he studies living things.
- He was the Chairman of Tayside University Hospitals NHS Trust. He later resigned from this role after a report was published.
- He served on many advisory groups. These include the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution and the Natural Environment Research Council.
- Stewart was the Chief Executive of the Agricultural and Food Research Council. This group supports research in farming and food.
- He was a Vice-President of the Royal Society of London.
- He was also a Past President of the British Association for the Advancement of Science.
Family Life
Sir William Stewart is married to Elizabeth Smales. She was a senior medical officer for the Scottish Executive.
