Professor Tom Solomon CBE, Professor of Neurology at the University of Liverpool, has been appointed by the Prime Minister as a trustee of the Science Museum Group for a four-year term.
The Science Museum Group comprises the Science Museum in London, the National Railway Museum in York, Locomotion in Shildon, the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester, and the Science and Innovation Park in Wiltshire. Together, its museums welcome more than 3.8 million visitors each year, host more than 650,000 school visits and care for a collection of over seven million objects spanning science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Professor Solomon takes up his post this month, joining Ann Allen, Priya Guha, Janice Lane, and Toufic Machnouk, as well as Anya Hurlbert and Baroness Morgan who have been reappointed .
Speaking about his appointment, Professor Solomon said: “I am deeply honoured to be appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Science Museum Group. I still remember visiting the Science Museum in London as a seven-year-old; it sparked a lifelong curiosity about science that has shaped both my career and my outlook on the world.
“At a time when clear, trusted science communication is more important than ever, institutions like the Science Museum Group play a vital role in connecting people with evidence, discovery and innovation. Through my work with museums in the UK and internationally, I have seen first-hand the power they have to inspire, educate and engage diverse audiences.
“I look forward to contributing to the Board’s work in ensuring strong governance, supporting strategic direction, and helping the Group continue to expand its reach and impact for future generations.”
An internationally recognised expert in emerging infections and neurological disease, Professor Solomon is also an honorary Consultant Neurologist at the Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust. He is Director of The Pandemic Institute and the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, and serves on the Council of the Royal College of Physicians.
Alongside his clinical and research work, Professor Solomon is a passionate advocate for public engagement with science. He has worked extensively with museums, schools and festivals to inspire wider audiences, including presenting family science shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Professor Louise Kenny, Pro Vice Chancellor of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, commented: “We are delighted that Professor Tom Solomon has been appointed as a trustee of the Science Museum Group. This appointment recognises his expertise and experience as a researcher, clinician and advocate for public engagement with science.
“As a Faculty, we are committed to ensuring our research benefits society and reaches audiences beyond academia. His appointment reflects these values, and we wish him every success in this important role.”