Applications are invited from scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics to take part in the Royal Society Pairing Scheme which gives researchers an opportunity to be paired with UK parliamentarians and civil servants.
Each year 30 research scientists are paired with civil servants so they can learn about each other’s work by spending time together in Westminster and the researcher’s institutions.
You can apply directly here.
Those taking part gain an insight into how research findings can help inform policy making, and come away with a better understanding of how they can get involved.
- Learn how parliament and government work and how you can feed in to the policy making process.
- Find out how your research can inform policy decisions.
- Build lasting relationships with parliamentarians and civil servants.
- Network with fellow scientists
How does the scheme work?
The scheme takes place annually, beginning with a ‘Week in Westminster’ in which the pairs first meet. Over the week the scientists take part in workshops, hear from invited speakers and spend two days shadowing their pair.
Read 2015’s ‘Week in Westminster’ agenda (PDF). You can see how last year’s participants spent their week in Westminster by checking out this Storify.
After the ‘Week in Westminster’, it is the turn of the parliamentarians and civil servants to get an insight into the world of research, undertaking reciprocal visits with their pairs.
The scheme is open for applications from scientists until Wednesday 9 March.
If you would like more information or would like support with your application please contact [email protected]