School of Social and Political Science

Scottish Science Advisory Council appoints Dr Kirsten Jenkins as Member



Dr Kirsten Jenkins has become a Member of the Scottish Science Advisory Council, supporting its vital role in ensuring scientific expertise is central to policy making.

Kirsten, Senior Lecturer in Energy, Environment and Society, was formerly an Associate Member and is one of four University of Edinburgh academics to join as full Members in 2026.

The SSAC is Scotland’s highest-level science advisory body, providing independent advice and recommendations on science strategy, policy and priorities to the Scottish Government. It plays an essential in ensuring that policy decisions are informed by the latest scientific evidence and expertise.  

Kirsten works in the Science, Technology and Innovation Studies subject area at the School of Social and Political Science. Her research focuses on energy, in particular the social justice issues created by its production and use.

She said: “I’m delighted to be continuing my involvement with the SSAC. Whilst our project on decarbonisation pathways for NHS Scotland continues, new and important work is starting, including consideration of data centre developments and mapping the systems research landscape across peatlands, forestry, and agriculture in Scotland. This continues to be an exciting time to feed into Scotland’s scientific future.”