Although science and research is a cornerstone of the economy and a strategic government priority, many researchers have little experience in engaging with policy makers. The relationship between the civil service, government and parliament, and their respective functions, can seem complex and opaque to them. At the same time, policy makers can struggle to engage with research, where the policy implications and/or recommendations are buried in technical journal articles or grant reports.
The second course in this series will bring policy makers and academic researchers together to help break down these barriers, encourage mutual understanding, and ultimately enable improved evidence-based policy making. It will provide early career researchers (PhD students, post-doctoral fellows and early career faculty) with an introduction to policymaking, show them how to engage with policy makers, either by their research being used to influence policy or by moving into a career in science policy. The course will focus on how policy is made in the UK, with one session focusing on international policy considerations.
The ultimate aim of this course is to build a community of policy-engaged researchers and research-engaged policy makers.
Learning outcomes
After attending this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe and contrast the basic structure of Parliament and Government
- Follow the legislative process and identify the key moments for influence
- Identify and use the different channels through which evidence can inform policy
- Describe how learned societies, academies and funders can channel the voice of researchers
- Tailor evidence to suit the needs of different types of policy makers
- Adapt your own research plans to maximise the impact on policy
- Connect with policy-makers and researchers who are seeking to influence policy
Hashtag: #SciPol19
Application and bursary deadline 9 July 2019
See the event page for full details and the programme.
