Strathclyde researcher selected for Westminster pairing scheme
Professor Matt Hannon has been selected to take part in The Royal Society's Pairing Scheme which sees research scientists paired with UK parliamentarians and civil servants to learn more about how policy and government works.
Matt is Professor of Sustainable Energy Business and Policy in the Hunter Centre for Research. His research examines the business models, policies and technologies necessary to accelerate the transition to a socially equitable, net-zero economy.
Through the Royal Society, he has been paired with Alison Thewliss – the MP for Glasgow Central - and will spend a week in Westminster finding out about what's involved in the life of an MP. The exchange also offers a platform for MPs like Alison to learn more about how academia functions and the value it offers policy makers.
This year's ‘Week in Westminster’ takes place from March 26-30. Those taking part gain an insight into how research findings can help inform policy making, and come away with a better understanding of how they can get involved.
Over the week the researchers will take part in workshops, hear from invited speakers and spend time with their pair. The MP, Peer or Civil Servant will then be invited to visit the scientist’s home institution and learn more about their work in person, giving them insight into the research landscape and forge direct links with researchers across the UK.
As well as spending time with their 'pair', last year's participants attended sessions on how parliament works, mock select committees and talks from various parties including The Royal Society.
Matt said, “This is a fantastic opportunity to gain insight into the inner workings of UK Parliament. I will gain first-hand experience of how academic research can shape policy but also how policy can inform academic research.
“As we face a combination of climate, cost of living and energy security crises, the need for evidence-based policy making has never been greater. I am delighted to have been awarded this opportunity by the Royal Society to gain insights into how I and other researchers can work with parliamentarians to shape public policy. Finally, I also look forward to meeting other like-minded academics from across the UK who also share a passion for translating research into real-world impact.”
Published: 1 March 2023
