Story perspectives

Paul Nurse Resumes Royal Society Role Amid Controversy

1/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Paul Nurse, Nobel Prize-winning geneticist, has resumed his presidency at the Royal Society.
The appointment has sparked controversy, with critics arguing it reinforces a boys' club image.
Nurse acknowledges the challenges, emphasizing scientific integrity and more inclusive leadership.
He expresses concern about right-wing populism's impact on scientific discourse and addresses UK science funding, visa policies, and argues that expulsion should only occur for fraudulent science.

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Story summary

Paul Nurse, Nobel Prize-winning geneticist, has resumed his presidency at the Royal Society.
The appointment has sparked controversy, with critics arguing it reinforces a boys' club image.
Nurse acknowledges the challenges, emphasizing scientific integrity and more inclusive leadership.
He expresses concern about right-wing populism's impact on scientific discourse and addresses UK science funding, visa policies, and argues that expulsion should only occur for fraudulent science.