Professor Ian Young has been appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours for services to health research and education.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt offered his congratulations, highlighting Young's ten-year tenure as the Department of Health's Chief Scientific Advisor before his move to the Food Standards Agency earlier this year.

Young, a consultant chemical pathologist at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, played a central role in Northern Ireland's pandemic response. He oversaw health-related research and development, leading the creation of the region's first Cancer Research strategy and the Research Strategy 2016-2025, which aimed to improve patient outcomes through high-quality research.

Nesbitt said Young's contributions to policy, life sciences and clinical innovation had been outstanding, not only locally but across the UK and internationally. He added that the professor's commitment to research and development would help the Department meet future challenges.

In response, Young said the honour reflected the support and achievements of many colleagues across the health and social care system. He said their collective work supported research, innovation and the best scientific advice to keep the population safe.

The Minister also congratulated staff from Health and Social Care and the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service who were recognised in the New Year Honours list, thanking them for their dedication.