Science to policy training workshop for NERC researchers
NERC supports environmental researchers in their science-to-policy interactions through a series of two-day policy training events aimed at exploring methods for effective engagement with policymakers. The workshops also provide an opportunity for delegates to practice their communication skills.
The workshops, co-hosted with various partner organisations, start with a lively discussion about science-to-policy interactions with a number of experienced researchers and policymakers, so that common practices can be considered from both sides of the science-to-policy interface. Delegates also hear from senior policymakers about how their organisations ensure timely input of science into policymaking.
Day two of the workshops focuses on how best to communicate science to policymakers, including both written and oral communication. Delegates work in small groups and with the help of a facilitator to practice writing for a policy audience, and to review their work among colleagues.
NERC has held five science-to-policy training workshops so far, in collaboration with different organisations:
- A joint NERC / ESRC event in December 2008 for PhD students working in the area of climate change (Edinburgh)
- A joint NERC / British Ecological Society (BES) / Environmental Research Funders Forum (ERFF) event in May 2009 for early career researchers (Reading)
- A joint NERC / ESRC event in December 2009 for PhD students working in areas related to LWEC (Birmingham)
- A joint NERC / British Ecological Society (BES) event for early career stage researchers on 18-19 May 2010 at the Defra Innovation Centre, Reading
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A joint NERC / British Ecological Society (BES) event for early career stage researchers on 5-6 May 2011 at Charles Darwin House (London)
Interested in future events?
Feedback from delegates who attended these events has been very positive. NERC is committed to hosting similar events in the future and details will be posted here. If you would like to indicate your interest in participating in a future event, or wish to know more about the workshop programme, please contact Faith Culshaw.