Professor Dennis Whyte has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority Group (UKAEA) following an international recruitment process. He will take up the role this autumn as the UK progresses its work to commercialise fusion energy technologies.
Professor Whyte will lead UKAEA's scientific and engineering work in fusion research and development, advance commercial pathways, and strengthen partnerships. The UK Government confirmed a £2.5 billion budget commitment for fusion research, development, and innovation for the five-year period to 2030, as part of its Industrial Strategy.
Minister of State for Energy, Michael Shanks, welcomed Professor Whyte, stating that his expertise will help strengthen the UK's position in fusion research. Professor Whyte expressed excitement about joining UKAEA and building on the UK’s legacy in fusion.
UKAEA's Culham Campus continues to grow as a hub for fusion research. Professor Whyte will lead a workforce of over 2,600 people across four sites, including UK Fusion Energy Ltd, which was established in November 2024 to deliver the STEP programme.