The Royal Society Pairing Scheme gives policymakers and research scientists the opportunity to learn about each other’s work by spending time together in Westminster and the researchers' institutions.

Pairing 30 researchers with UK parliamentarians or civil servants, the scheme allows researchers to gain an insight into how their findings can help inform policymaking and gives policymakers the opportunity to learn more about how to engage with researchers to ensure robust evidence is used to shape policy decisions.

During the 2025 scheme, researchers and policymakers will spend a week in Westminster, hearing from invited speakers, taking part in events and workshops. Researchers will take part in a Mock Select Committee, and the policymakers will then be invited to visit the researcher’s institution later in the year to learn more about their work in person.

Previous participants include: Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party; Ben Wallace, former Defence Secretary; Greg Clark, former Chair of the Science and Technology Committee; Thangam Debbonaire, former Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport; and Lord Clement-Jones, Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson for Science, Innovation and Technology.

The Royal Society welcomes applications from scientists across all science, technology, engineering, medicine and mathematics (STEMM) disciplines working in academia or industry. The Royal Society will consider applications from social or behavioural scientists who utilise or have an overlap with STEMM disciplines. To be eligible for the scheme applicants are required to have at least two years postdoctoral research experience or equivalent research experience in industry.

Amy Thompson, Head of Policy Programmes and Communications at the Institute for Policy Research, said:

“The Royal Society Pairing Scheme is a wonderful initiative designed to bridge the gap between the scientific community and government policymakers. The scheme aims to enhance the understanding and collaboration between these two sectors by providing a unique opportunity for civil servants and UK scientists to experience each other's work environments. I would highly recommend this opportunity.”

The Pairing Scheme will take place in March 2025. Applications close on 30 September 2024. If you would like advice on applying, please contact Amy Thompson: at712@bath.ac.uk