If outgoing chief scientists leave a letter on the desk for their replacement here’s what could be in Alan Finkel’s

“The special ingredient across all projects I have undertaken has been broad and deep consultation. Consultation with the research community, with investors, with industry. And also, with the government ministers and policy advisors for whom a report is intended. Taking their opinion into account does not compromise independence*. The independence of a report comes from the courage and experience of the chair and the panel members. Every time we go through a round of consultation, I come out wiser.” (in the Laurie Hammond Oration, Wednesday).

* emphasis in the original