Research Councils UK (RCUK) has today released three new publications that highlight
the importance of public engagement activities and celebrate the successes of the
increasing number of researchers engaging the public with support from RCUK.
RCUK believes that engaging the public can enhance the quality and impact of
research by widening horizons and providing enhanced career progression opportunities.
The RCUK Public Engagement with Research (PER) programme is committed to recognising
and responding to public views, inspiring the next generation of researchers and
supporting researchers in their public engagement activities.
Professor Alan Thorpe, Chair, Research Councils UK said: “Public engagement with
research can provide substantial benefits to the researchers involved in engaging
the public, as well as providing a major contribution to society. If there is ongoing
dialogue between the research community and the public about the implications and
applications of research then society can benefit more fully.”
The three new publications are:
- RCUK Public Engagement with Research Strategy
Outlines RCUK aims, objectives and priorities going forward
- Engaging Young People with Cutting Edge Research: a guide for researchers
and teachers
Highlights opportunities and support for researchers and schools to work together
- What’s in it for me? The benefits of public engagement for researchers
Gives examples of the benefits experienced by researchers across the UK from
engaging the public in their research.
As part of National Science and Engineering Week (12 – 21 March), RCUK funded
researchers will be showcasing their public engagement activities at various events
including The Big Bang UK Scientist's and Engineers Fair at Manchester Central (11
– 13 March). The event is free to enter and includes stands, workshops, shows and
simulators that bring science and engineering alive.
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Further information
Contact:
Jane Wakefield
RCUK Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592
Notes for editors
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These new publications are now available on the RCUK website:
www.rcuk.ac.uk/per and hard copies can be requested from:
communications@rcuk.ac.uk
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Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven
Research Councils. We invest annually around £3 billion in research. Our focus
is on excellence with impact. We nurture the highest quality research, as judged
by international peer review providing the UK with a competitive advantage.
Global research requires we sustain a diversity of funding approaches, fostering
international collaborations, and providing access to the best facilities and
infrastructure, and locating skilled researchers in stimulating environments.
Our research achieves impact – the demonstrable contribution to society and
the economy made by knowledge and skilled people. To deliver impact, researchers
and businesses need to engage and collaborate with the public, business, government
and the third sector.
www.rcuk.ac.uk
The seven UK Research Councils are:
- Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC);
- Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC);
- Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC);
- Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC);
- Medical Research Council (MRC);
- Natural Environment Research Council (NERC);
- Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).