Tim Peake, Ron Dennis appointed in new UK DSIT Start-up Board

The Community News/London

Astronaut Tim Peake and McLaren founder Ron Dennis are among 7 science and tech leaders appointed to the UK government’s new DSIT Start-Up Board on Saturday.

The other new non-executive members include Shonnel Malani, Baroness Alison Wolf, Melissa Di Donato, Saul Klein and Professor Jason Chin FRS.

The appointments came after the UK announced funding for innovation accelerators, life sciences and laboratories as well as announcing new Wireless, AI and Quantum strategies.

The new members including Tim Peake and Ron Dennis will provide overarching strategic guidance and insight to aid in economic growth, create jobs and improve Britons lives.

These members will serve on the DSIT Start-up Board for 9 months to nurture it in the first year before a permanent body is hired.

It is worth mentioning here that DSIT was formed in February this year to fuel innovations in emerging tech sectors.

Commenting on the appointment, Tim Peake said, “I’m very excited to be joining the board and helping support the UK in becoming a global leader in science and technology.

As a former test pilot and astronaut, who has taken part in more than 250 scientific experiments for the European Space Agency and international partners, I hope to bring a wealth of experience of how science, technology and innovation are critical to both learning and development.

This is part of my mission to inspire the next generation of science and technology professionals as the UK ramps up its ambitions to compete on a global stage.”

Ron Dennis commented, “Having spent most of my commercial life immersed in a highly competitive industry, in which innovation and the application of science and technology is fundamental to success, it is my aim to bring what I can of my experience and focus in supporting this new and important government department.

I look forward to helping to effect a strategy for change for the future, bringing what I hope will be valuable insight and playing a positive role on the Board.”