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Pairing scheme scientists in Westminster Hall, just before they began their tour of parliament
Pairing scheme
This scheme gives policymakers and research scientists an opportunity to experience each other’s worlds.
I have taken away a fresh perspective on how research findings can help inform the creation, scrutiny and revision of policy, as well as a better understanding of how researchers can get involved in the process.
Applications for the 2022 pairing scheme are now closed. Please check back next year for the 2023 scheme.
If you have any questions, please contact public.affairs@royalsociety.org
Each year 30 research scientists are paired with UK parliamentarians and civil servants. They learn about each other’s work by spending time together in Westminster and the researcher’s institutions.
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. Find out who has taken part in previous years (XLS).
How does the scheme work?
Next year’s pairing scheme will be held in person, with the ‘Week in Westminster’ taking place from 13 – 18 March 2022. Over the week the scientists will take part in workshops, hear from invited speakers and spend time with their pair. The MP, Peer or Civil Servant will then be invited to visit the scientist’s home institution and find more about their work in person.
Read March 2020’s 'Week in Westminster' agenda (PDF) or find out more about our 2021 participants’ experience.
