Professor Lanham-New's Journey: Shaping Public Health Policies
A scientist's influence on public health can be profound, and Professor Sue Lanham-New's story is a testament to that. As a respected academic, her journey into the world of government health advisory committees has left a lasting mark on the well-being of the UK population.
Professor Lanham-New, a distinguished scholar at the University of Surrey, joined the Scientific Advisory Committee for Nutrition (SACN) in 2010. But here's where it gets interesting: her motivation wasn't just about adding a prestigious line to her CV. Lanham-New was inspired by the committee's reputation for excellence and wanted to contribute her critical thinking and expertise to the field of nutrition and public health.
The Impact:
Lanham-New's research has focused on the intricate link between nutrition and bone health, with an emphasis on vitamin D. Her involvement in SACN's working groups has led to groundbreaking contributions. As a member of the Vitamin D working group, she helped establish a new, widely adopted recommendation for vitamin D intake, filling a gap in the UK's nutritional guidelines.
A Critical Role:
Lanham-New's role within SACN is one she holds dear. She describes herself as a critical friend, ensuring the committee's output is rigorous and beneficial to the public. Her commitment to the committee's process and the impact of its research recommendations are evident. She encourages researchers to build upon SACN's work, emphasizing the importance of identifying knowledge gaps.
Collaborative Spirit:
What makes Lanham-New's experience truly unique is her appreciation for collaboration. She values working with diverse experts, from fellow SACN members to Chief Scientific Advisers, and learning from their insights. This multidisciplinary approach has not only enriched her understanding but also contributed to comprehensive reports.
Support and Advice:
Lanham-New's success story is also a tale of support and encouragement. She praises the SACN secretariat for their exceptional work, ensuring the committee's smooth operation. Her advice to aspiring academics is to actively engage with various committees and observe their workings. She believes that joining government advisory bodies is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a tangible difference in people's lives.
And this is the part most people miss: government advisory roles are not just about influencing policy but also about personal growth and contributing to a collective effort for the greater good. Lanham-New's journey invites us to consider the impact we can have when we merge our expertise with public service. So, do you think academics should play a more active role in shaping public health policies? Share your thoughts below!
