The scheme, which has been running since 2001, sees 30 research scientists paired with a UK MP, Peer or civil servant and gives participants the opportunity to learn about each other’s work by spending time together in Westminster and the researcher’s institution. The Scheme strengthens relationships between policymakers and scientists so that public policy decisions can be made with the best use of scientific evidence.
This year, two researchers from Loughborough University are part of the thirty-strong cohort of UK Scientists who shadowed politicians and civil servants for four days at the end of March. The policymakers are then invited to the researchers’ institution for a reciprocal visit to learn about their work.
Savannah Worne, whose research interests range across aquatic environmental geoscience and climate change reconstruction, shadowed Baroness Liz Sugg who previously served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and Minister for the Overseas Territories and Sustainable Development, and as a Special Advisor to David Cameron in his time as Foreign Secretary. Savannah shadowed Baroness Sugg in a number of activities during the week, including:
- Watching oral questions in the Lords, followed by Chamber business
- Meeting with “Peers for the Planet” group to learn about their work
- One-on-one time with Baroness Sugg to discuss work and interests
- Meeting with Lords Library to discuss their briefing and research work.
Matthew Inglis, Professor of Mathematical Cognition is also taking part in the Scheme and shadowed Lord Tim Clement-Jones, who is the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson in the Lords for the Digital Economy. Lord Clement-Jones is Chair of Council at Queen Mary in London, so has experience of interacting with scientists at higher education institutes.
These experiences will go a long way to strengthening the relationship between public policy decision-making and the use of expert academic research.
In the Royal Society press release, President of the Society Sir Adrian Smith said:
“At a time when science and scientists are under threat around the globe, programmes such as the Royal Society Pairing Scheme have never been more important. We must continue to strengthen links between scientists and policy makers. Having this group of UK scientists in Westminster to develop their understanding of policy making and share their expertise to shape it can help ensure research is translated into policy that improves lives.”