The Senior Lay Member

The Senior Lay Member must ensure that the Court conducts its business in an effective and efficient manner with due consideration of the appropriate legal and compliance issues.

The Senior Lay Member should ensure that members of the Court work well together and that members conduct themselves in accordance with accepted standards of behaviour in public life.

Dr Frank Armstrong is an experienced, medically qualified Pharmaceutical Executive who has worked to Board level in the UK, US, Switzerland and Germany.

Frank has been responsible for the development of a number of new treatments for infectious, respiratory and neurological diseases and cancer. He has experience of working with inventors and universities in translational research.

Frank grew up and attended primary and secondary school in Edinburgh, and is a proud graduate of the University of Edinburgh in Biochemistry and Medicine (and also taught clinical students at the University following his graduation).

Frank was previously a member of University Court at the University of Edinburgh for 8 years, where he also convened the Estates Committee.

Frank took up the role on 1 August 2026 for a period of four years.

The role of Senior Lay Member was introduced in 2020.  

Janet Legrand OBE KC (Hon) held the position for 6 years, from August 2020 to July 2026.