Applications open for influential Parliamentary research roles

Eight new part-time posts aimed at mid-career researchers at UK universities are currently being advertised via UK Parliament and UKRI to improve the use of evidence by parliamentarians across key research themes.

Over 2023, Parliament and the ESRC piloted a new role in Parliament: the Thematic Research Lead. Evidence suggests that these prestigious and influential roles are making a positive impact in increasing and enhancing the use of research evidence within Parliament.

Following its success, Parliament has partnered with UKRI to expand its network of Thematic Research Leads (TRLs) across a wider range of academic disciplines and policy areas. New part-time positions cover a broad range of scientific and research disciplines:

What are TRLs?

TRLs are mid-career researchers embedded three days a week in Parliament, whilst retaining their substantive academic post for the remaining time. They conduct three primary activities:

strategic support for the production and delivery of research evidence for Parliament, within a broad policy area
activities to support the development of a research and innovation landscape that facilitates and encourages knowledge exchange between Parliament and the research community
participation in a network of Thematic Research Leads to share intelligence and insights across policy areas.

Prof Julie Barnett, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University of Bath said: “The Thematic Research Lead position is a fantastic opportunity to work within Parliament to help enhance and improve the use of research evidence across themes.

“Not only is this a valuable development opportunity for mid-career researchers providing them insight into how Parliament works and how evidence can be effective in shaping debates, but it is also a real opportunity to enhance knowledge and awareness about pressing public policy challenges.”