The Foundation Future Leaders Programme aims to support the next generation of leaders in science, technology, research and innovation in building their understanding and links to other parts of the UK’s research and innovation system.

Launched in 2019 and run by the Foundation for Science and Technology, the programme brings together a cohort of around 35 early- to mid-career professionals from the research community, industry and the civil service and wider public sector. Among the successful applicants this year, selected from a competitive pool of over 100 candidates, is Dr Jordan Tchilingirian, Lecturer in Sociology and Co-Director of the Centre for the Analysis of Social Policy and Society (CASPS), University of Bath.

Dr Tchilingirian specialises in the use of social network analysis to understand knowledge regimes – the institutions which structure the production and consumption of knowledge for public policy. His research contributes to the study of think tanks and public policy research institutes which seek to produce knowledge for policy making.

He said: "I’m honoured to join such a diverse and interesting community of professionals. This exciting opportunity allows me to bring my work on 'policy knowledge' into dialogue with experts from STEM disciplines and those working across the UK's research and innovation sector."

Over the course of the year, the Foundation Future Leaders will meet senior figures from government, parliament, universities, large industries, SMEs, research charities and others. They will present their own expertise, develop new skills and organise the programme’s 2025 conference.

The Institute for Policy Research (IPR) holds membership with the Foundation for Science and Technology, which enables the University’s staff to take part in their monthly online events and annual conference, as well as apply to this programme.

Amy Thompson, Head of Policy Programmes and Communications for the IPR, said: "It is wonderful news that Jordan has been selected for the Foundation for Science and Technology's Future Leaders Fellowship. This programme offers an incredible opportunity to network with academics, industry leaders and policy experts, enabling collaboration, learning and the exchange of experiences. Congratulations, Jordan."