InnoDC’s Project Manager, Manon Davies, attended the UK Parliament for Researchers workshop, which provided valuable information, such as:
To interact with politicians and policy-makers – Research which select committee is interested in your area, offer to host a visit to your laboratory or work-place and use plain language.
Written scientific evidence – Look for opportunities to submit scientific evidence, such as to UK Parliament POSTnotes. POST stands for Parliament Office of Science & Technology. Its notes are 4-page reviews written clearly to inform Members of Parliament, the Lords and the public on emerging research areas.
POST fellowships – Consider applying to one of the UK Parliament fellowship schemes – Direct Call or Open Call – and spend a few months working in Parliament.
Researchers bravely presented 1 x minute pitches before Government representatives who gave feedback. The best pitches:
1: Explained the situation now, providing examples (the problems);
2: Summarised their project and how it could solve the problem(s); and
3: Said what they wanted the policy-maker to do (eg policy recommendations. Apparently, do not ask for more research!).
After the workshop, Manon contacted the UK Parliament Office and coordinated InnoDC Lead Scientist, Prof Jun Liang‘s contribution to POSTnote: Developments in Wind Power.
