What prompted you to apply for The Royal Society’s MP Pairing Scheme?
Having always been politically minded, I’ve become increasingly interested in how policy decisions shape science and education. I first heard about the scheme from a colleague, and it seemed like a great opportunity to better understand how research is used in policymaking and how researchers and educators can contribute to those discussions.
What did you learn about how research can help to inform policy making?
One of the biggest takeaways was realising how many opportunities there are for research to inform policymaking, not just before decisions are made but at multiple stages throughout the process: from shaping priorities at early stages, to informing parliamentary discussions, and post-legislative scrutiny and evaluation.
Some examples include contributing expertise through the Government Office for Science
Areas of Research Interest, briefings produced by the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), or inquiries run by the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee. There are also a range of engagement schemes that enable scientists to work more directly with policymakers.
Altogether, it highlighted that researchers can play an ongoing and varied role in policymaking.
Are there aspects of scientific research you think it would be helpful for policymakers to have a better understanding of?
I think on a general level, policymakers recognise that a stable and well-supported science landscape underpins significant economic and societal benefits. But at a more granular level, there can be less visibility of the pressures created by short-term, patchy, and often precarious funding, which can make it hard for institutions, labs, and individuals to invest consistently and innovate over the long term.
Has the scheme changed how you think about communicating your science?
Yes, it reinforced the importance of clearly framing the “so what?” of research, by distilling its relevance and policy impact into insights that busy MPs can quickly grasp.
What did you most enjoy about taking part in the scheme?
The scheme was incredibly varied, and I enjoyed every part of it. I particularly appreciated observing proceedings in the Commons chamber, from PMQs to oral questions, and attending a range of meetings with my MP and her staffer. This really gave me a much clearer sense of how MPs hold each other to account, how people can engage with MPs, and how Parliament works in practice.
It was made all the more enjoyable by being in the Houses of Parliament with its historic architecture, although I found a more contemporary feature, New Dawn – an installation artwork that changes with the tide of the Thames and symbolises women’s suffrage – the most captivating.
Away from Parliament, the policy simulations we took part in were fun and really brought to life the pressures and trade-offs of decision-making. It was also great to connect with other scientists and civil servants on the scheme and discuss different perspectives on policy engagement.