Launched in 2001, the Distinguished Service Award recognises the enthusiasm, hard work and goodwill of longer-serving members from all parts of the Society. This year's winner is Dave Allen, who will receive his award at SCI's AGM on 2 July 2025.
When and why did you become a member of SCI?
I first became a member of SCI via the Corporate Partners scheme when my organisation joined it. That was in 2017.
Why did you decide to get involved in committee work?
I was regularly engaging with the SCI leadership team as a consequence of my role in a large UK Pharma company and was then invited to join the SCI Board of Trustees. As well as being a trustee, I lead the Patrons group of the College of Scholars and contribute to various other SCI events such as Bright SCIdea Challenge, Scholars Showcase etc.
What has driven your continued involvement with SCI?
I have been very fortunate to have benefited from the UK science base throughout my career, formally with large Pharma and now at the Francis Crick Institute. The UK’s academic, biotech and industrial organisations are world class and make vital contributions to addressing the major global challenges facing us all. Being a part of the SCI’s work to help build and develop this national and global ecosystem is very fulfilling.
How has being involved in SCI activities had an impact on your professional career?
The SCI brings to together an incredibly wide and varied community of scientists that has allowed me a breath of interactions, discussions and understanding that I would otherwise never have experienced in my other professional roles.
How do your SCI activities reflect your personal/professional interests?
Outside of work, I enjoy gardening and attempting (and often failing) to cultivate orchids in my greenhouse. Although I haven’t yet found an SCI committee to cover my orchid interest, I really enjoy seeing and sometimes being able to help early career scientists take on the urgent and complex scientific challenges facing us today.
How do you think that your contribution has helped shape SCI?
I’m told that I think somewhat laterally (some say randomly) about issues and problems and so I like to think that sometimes I can bring a different perspective or idea to the discussion.
What are your thoughts about receiving a Distinguished Service Award?
Very pleased. Thank you, SCI!
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