We will increase our science advisory work to ensure that policies on key issues are influenced by the best independent science through the creation of a Science Policy Centre. The Centre will focus on climate change, energy and environment; new and emerging technologies; biosciences and health; science base and innovation; and international security.
We will:
- Create a Science Policy Centre that will increase our ability to influence policy by:
- providing more extensive coverage of key themes
- identifying emerging issues
- engaging more actively at all stages with those we seek to influence, and creating stronger links with government, Parliament, European policymaking bodies, multilateral organisations, industry and NGOs
- systematically conducting structured dialogue with public groups and stakeholders over policy issues, and building on our reputation as a pioneer in incorporating dialogue into policy studies by continuing to be innovative in this area
- interacting more vigorously with other organisations and world scientific bodies, ensuring we play a leading role
- stepping up our work with the media to ensure science is accurately represented.
- Create five dedicated units within the Science Policy Centre each focussing on critical national and global challenges. They will involve Fellows and other leading scientists from around the world.
- Increase the capability of scientists in general to engage with and influence policymakers through our successful MP-Scientist Pairing Scheme and its European equivalent and through other activities including internships in government departments and training workshops.
- Look at new ways to encourage public participation in science so that people of all backgrounds can share their aspirations for science, and contribute their views about its applications and significance.