Prime Minister Reappoints Stephen Belcher and Tim Dugher as Trustees to Science Museum Group in UK

The Science Museum Group has welcomed back two of its distinguished trustees, Professor Stephen Belcher CBE and Tim Dugher, who have both been reappointed for another four-year term running from 1 June 2026 to 31 May 2030.

Their return is expected to strengthen the Group’s expertise in science, engineering, and leadership.

Professor Stephen Belcher: Steering Climate Science

Professor Stephen Belcher, currently Chief Scientist at the UK Met Office, will continue to provide strategic oversight of research and operations in weather and climate.

His work ensures that the Met Office’s programs align with the broader UK and global scientific landscape.

Stephen also chairs the World Meteorological Organisation’s Science Advisory Panel and serves as a visiting professor at the Universities of Reading and Exeter.

In recognition of his contributions to climate science, he was awarded a CBE in the 2026 New Year’s Honours List.

Tim Dugher: Engineering Leadership on Track

Tim Dugher brings nearly five decades of railway industry experience to the Science Museum Group.

Starting as an Engineering Apprentice, he rose through the ranks to become Chief Operating Officer of Angel Trains Limited, before transitioning to non-executive roles in 2011.

His extensive board experience includes the Rail Safety and Standards Board, Vossloh Kiepe UK, Network Certification Body, and Porterbrook Leasing.

Tim also manages his own consultancy and contributes to professional organizations and local community initiatives, such as serving as a school governor and parish councillor.

A Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Tim has long championed the advancement of engineering knowledge and education.

Governance and Accountability

Trustees of the Science Museum Group serve in an unpaid capacity.

Their appointments adhere strictly to the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments, which is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

Both Stephen Belcher and Tim Dugher have confirmed they have not undertaken any significant political activity in the last five years.

Impact and Consequences

The reappointment of these trustees reinforces the Science Museum Group’s commitment to scientific excellence and practical expertise.

Their combined experience in climate science and engineering is expected to enhance the Group’s educational programs, exhibitions, and research initiatives, positioning it as a leading institution in both public engagement and professional collaboration.

What’s Next?

Over the coming years, the trustees will guide the Science Museum Group through ongoing modernization projects, new exhibition planning, and collaborations with scientific and engineering communities worldwide.

Their oversight will be crucial in shaping the museum’s future strategy and maintaining its international reputation.

Summary

Professor Stephen Belcher and Tim Dugher have been reappointed as trustees of the Science Museum Group until 2030.

With expertise in climate science and engineering, they bring leadership and strategic guidance to the Group’s mission of public education, research, and innovation.

Their appointments follow all governance regulations and underscore the Group’s dedication to expertise-driven oversight.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Professor Stephen Belcher and Tim Dugher reappointed as Science Museum Group Trustees until 2030.
• Stephen Belcher leads climate science research at the UK Met Office and chairs an international advisory panel.
• Tim Dugher brings 48 years of railway engineering experience and board-level expertise.
• Trustees serve in an unpaid role under strict governance codes, with no significant political activity declared.
• Their reappointment strengthens the Group’s capacity for innovation, education, and global scientific collaboration.