Dr David Coles

Biography

David Coles is currently on secondment from the UK Department of Health to the European Commission (EC) where he works on ethics in the Science and Society directorate. Among other things he manages the EU's ethical review of proposals submitted for funding to its 6th Framework programme of research. David joined the EC from the UK Office of Science and Technology, where he was Assistant Director with responsibility for implementation of guidelines on use of scientific advice in policy making, a code of practice for scientific advisory committees and development of government policy on improving public confidence in science.

At the UK Department of Health he was Secretary to the Human Genetics Commission. His previous work also includes development of policy on medical ethics, research ethics committees, overseeing the work of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, and development of Government guidelines on risk communication.