Executive Council - Senate

The SIFR Executive Council (Senate) serves as the apex governing body of the Scinova International Frontier Research (SIFR), UK. Comprising eminent scientists, policymakers, and thought leaders, the Council ensures strategic oversight, upholds academic integrity, and steers SIFR’s mission to advance fundamental research worldwide. 

1. Strategic Leadership: Guide SIFR’s long-term vision in alignment with global scientific priorities. 

2. Policy Formulation: Establish frameworks for research ethics, collaborations, examination, results and funding. 

3. Quality Assurance: Monitor institutional standards for awards, fellowships, and publications. 

4. Global Advocacy: Promote SIFR’s role in international science policy (e.g., UN SDGs, G20). 

5. Crisis Governance: Address controversies or ethical breaches in SIFR-affiliated research. 

The Council comprises 13-15 members across these tiers: 

1. Core Members 

- Chairperson: Eminent scientist (e.g., Nobel Laureate/Former Royal Society President). 

- Vice-Chair: SIFR Director or senior academic. 

- Secretary-General: Administrative head (non-voting). 

2. Scientific Representatives 

- 5–7 Field-Specific Experts: Physics, Mathematics, Quantum Sciences, etc. 

- 2 Industry Leaders: From tech/pharma giants (e.g., Google Quantum, AstraZeneca). 

3. Ex-Officio Members 

- SIFR Founder 

- UK Government Science Advisor (Observer Role) 

4. Rotating Members 

- 2 Early-Career Researchers (3-year term to foster inclusivity). 

1. Appointment Process 

- Nominations: By SIFR Royal Fellows or partner institutions. 

- Vetting: Independent panel reviews CVs and conflict-of-interest disclosures. 

- Term: 5 years (renewable once). 

2. Meetings & Voting 

- Quarterly Meetings: Virtual/hybrid; emergency sessions as needed. 

- Quorum: 60% members required for policy votes. 

- Resolutions: Passed by simple majority (Chair holds tiebreaker vote). 

3. Ethical Guidelines 

- Confidentiality: Non-disclosure of sensitive deliberations. 

- Impartiality: Recusal from decisions involving personal/financial interests. 

- Transparency: Annual public report on Council activities. 

4. Removal Protocol 

- Grounds: Misconduct, absenteeism (>3 meetings), or ethical violations. 

- Process: 2/3 majority vote after independent investigation.