Aisling Burnand, chief executive of the BioIndustry Association (BIA) in Britain, has been named a Member of The Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to science.
Ms Burnand joined the BIA in 1998 as director of public affairs and became chief executive in 2003. In her role, she has lobbied on behalf of the biotechnology industry in the UK including advocating stem-cell research and supporting the right of investigators to work free from harassment from animal rights extremists. Together with other organisations, she supported the passage of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2006 which gives greater protection for medical researchers. She has also lobbied for a reform of pre-emption rights in the UK.
Ms Burnand sits on the boards of EuropaBio, the UK Clinical Research Collaboration and the Coalition for Medical Progress. She is also a member of the Technology Advisory Group of the London Stock Exchange.
The Order of the British Empire, which was created during World War I by King George V, recognises service to the arts and sciences and to the community.
Sources:
1. BIA press release, 18 June 2007
2. The Monarchy Today, www.royal.gov.uk
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