Science policy affects us all, whether it is to do with research funding or the way in which science is taught in schools. Engaging with science policy while you are a student is really important; the policy being made today could directly affect you in the future. You can get involved in a number of different ways, whether as an engaged researcher, by studying for a degree in science policy or getting a job in science policy.
There are a number of ways in which you can get involved with policy:
Join CaSE – student discount
Support CaSE by becoming a member; it’s £10 a year for students
CaSE Campus Representatives and Science Societies
If you would like to help raise CaSE’s profile at your university and help us with some of the work we do why not contact us about becoming a campus representative for CaSE. You would get free membership, including our quarterly science policy newsletter and e-bulletins as well as the chance to get an insight into how science policy works.
If you’re involved in a science or engineering society, you could try and introduce a policy officer role focusing on issues that affect students. Most learned societies have a science policy department; you can visit the following websites for more information:
Institute of Physics
Royal Society of Chemistry
Society of Biology
Royal Academy of Engineering
Royal Society
Study for a course in Science Policy
Visit our Science Policy Courses page to see some opportunities. Studying a science policy or communication course is a great way to get a foot in the door; the courses often provide work experience and opportunities for networking.
