Science Strategy Director -
is developing a new programme for our science and he explains some of the progress that has been made under the generic banners of biomics, data and veterinary sciences.

"A team of scientists, drawn from each of the science programmes, has formed a virtual Biomics Centre to improve the co-ordination of molecular science at VLA. Initially they are dealing with various issues including how their area of work can best be organised and how the different work groups across VLA can best work together. Many of our customers’ requirements can be met by applying genomic approaches to the underlying biological problems. The Biomics Centre will provide technology platforms and processes for the systematic collection, analysis, storage and application of molecular data".

"A Centre for Epidemiology and Risk Analysis has been established as part of the development of a Data Sciences Centre where all our data science activities will be co-ordinated".

"To help Defra deliver its Animal Health and Welfare Strategy we are refocusing our veterinary sciences by developing a broad range of competencies and increasing the interdisciplinary nature of our veterinary work".

Chris Thorns

Research Director -
joined the Strategy Management Group in April 2004 to take over responsibility for VLA’s current research projects. One of his specific areas of interest, from his previous position as the Food and Environmental Safety programme manager, is the collaboration with the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

"VLA and HPA are now involved in many joint activities including the reporting of antimicrobial resistant organisms and zoonoses in animals and humans. There are also joint research projects, sharing of laboratory facilities and training and exchange of scientists. In addition, work priorities for a jointly-funded post have been agreed and plans for enhanced liaison between our Regional Laboratories and HPA’s English laboratories have been identified".

Roger Hancock

Surveillance & Laboratory Services Director -
was seconded for seven weeks as part of a Civil Service initiative to a private company, Benchmark, to gain more experience of how other commercial organisations deliver their science.

Benchmark consists of a number of companies that include:

• The Oxford University farm - a commercial mixed sheep, beef, poultry, pigs and cereals enterprise, farming approximately 1200 acres.
• Farm Animal Initiative - utilising the commercial farm to pilot novel husbandry systems designed to improve animal welfare and farm sustainability. Both the private and Government sectors fund these projects.
• Consultancy - farm assurance, animal welfare and food safety particularly to the retail sector.
• Development and maintenance of specialist farming websites, such as ‘ThePigSite.com’.

"I was struck by the many similarities between running a successful private company and an executive agency in Government.
At a strategic level these included the need for a shared vision focussed on customer needs, a strategic plan to deliver that vision and involvement and empowerment of staff with the right skills and competences to deliver that plan".