The Department for Work and Pensions announced on 26 August 2026 that Professor David Strain had been appointed as its new Chief Medical Advisor. According to the department, he joined from the University of Exeter, the NHS and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, where he had been Thematic Research Lead for Health for the previous two years. The release said he was to start in the position from the end of August. He has also held senior roles including Chair of the British Medical Association Board of Science and Medical Advisor to Action for ME.

In the role, the department said, Professor Strain would provide clinical leadership and expert advice, helping ensure clinical evidence and expertise inform policy and service delivery. In remarks carried in the release, he said he was delighted to join and looked forward to working with colleagues across the department and its clinical community to strengthen the contribution clinical professionals make to DWP's work.

The release stated that he would succeed Dr Gail Allsopp, crediting her with strengthening the department's approach to clinical policy, clinical governance and safeguarding. It described Professor Strain as a doctor, clinical academic and health policy leader whose work has focused on translating evidence into practical improvements for people, particularly those living with long-term health conditions.