Selvarani Elahi takes over as Deputy Government Chemist

With more than 20 years’ experience in food and agriculture sample analysis

LGC, a UK-based specialist in analytical, forensic and diagnostic services and reference standards, has appointed Selvarani Elahi as deputy Government Chemist. She becomes the first female scientist to hold this title in the UK and takes over the role from Ian Lumley, on his retirement. Elahi will now act as deputy for Dr Derek Craston, who has been the UK’s Government Chemist since 1 June 2008.

In addition to her new role, Elahi retains her current position as head of Consumer Protection Services at LGC, which has its headquarters in Teddington, Middlesex. Elahi has more than 20 years’ experience of the analysis of food and agriculture samples to establish their composition, particularly for contaminants, additives, nutrients and to assess their authenticity for both the private and public sectors.

Discharged on behalf of the UK department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the role of the Government Chemist is a State appointment, agreed under the devolved authorities of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Elahi said: ‘The Government Chemist function is fundamental to providing an independent voice for sound analytical measurement science and preventing miscarriages of justice. As well as resolving disputes, a key aspect of the role is preventing disputes from arising by conducting salient project work and giving well informed advice to stakeholders. My experience of the analysis of food and animal feed will help me to discharge my duties in this important statutory role.’

You may also like

Regulatory

LGC purchases South African testing firm Thistle QA

Expanding its clinical proficiency testing (PT) offering
Regulatory

ATCC adds new customer-driven format to its quality control standards portfolio

Makes it easier for industrial and pharmaceutical labs to test for product safety
Regulatory

Audit & Compliance Support Promotion

Audit ready? We take the stress out of the process. Our FDA, EU, and ISO experts are offering a limited-time, one-day audit at a special promotional rate—giving you an efficient way to uncover gaps, validate readiness, and strengthen your quality system. With regulatory expectations rising and internal resources stretched thin, our experienced consultants provide clear, actionable insights that help you stay compliant, confident, and prepared.
Hi Tech Manufacturing

AST and Marchesini Group debut partnership benefit with expanded drug product manufacturing portfolio at INTERPHEX 2026

Partnership showcases integrated aseptic technologies and end-to-end fill-finish and inspection solutions for sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing
Hi Tech Manufacturing

SPIE moves to acquire Czech cleanroom specialist BLOCK Group to strengthen Central Europe footprint

The independent European leader in multi-technical services has signed an agreement to acquire Czech cleanroom engineering firm BLOCK Group, expanding capabilities in pharma, biotech and healthcare
Regulatory

UK and US deepen medical device regulatory alignment on standards and approval pathways

The UK and US have agreed to strengthen cooperation on medical device regulation to align standards, safety assessments and approval pathways across both markets
Containment

Next level integrity for aseptic manufacturing

Advanced glove and transfer system testing for stronger contamination control and regulatory readiness at INTERPHEX 2026
Subscribe now