IRR Clinical Scientist, Dr Christopher Lucas, is stepping into the world of politics for a week, gaining a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the workings of Westminster and discovering how research findings can help inform policy making. Dr Lucas, who is based in the Centre for Inflammation Research, is interested in understanding how the inflammatory response helps the body repair itself after injury. He is one of just thirty UK research scientists selected to swap places with politicians and civil servants. He will explore the world of politics over four days, as part of the Royal Society Pairing Scheme, which has been running since 2001.This scheme aims to help build relationships between scientists and politicians, ensuring that policymakers can make decisions based on the best scientific evidence.During his time in Westminster, Dr Lucas will shadow a diverse range of parliamentarians and civil servants, including newly elected MPs: Jayne Kirkham, Dr Scott Arthur, Laurence Turner, Ian Sollom, and Adam Thompson. He’ll also engage with other parliamentarians, including Baroness Sheehan, Lords Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee; Lord Clement-Jones, Lords Spokesperson for the Digital Economy; and Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle, former Leader of the Green Party of England and Wales.Over the course of the week, Dr Lucas will get a behind the scenes insight into how policy is formed, shadowing Patrick Stopford, the 9th Earl of Courtown who holds a seat in the House of Lords, serves as the Opposition Deputy Chief Whip in the Lords, and is a member of the Finance Committee. He will also hear from invited speakers, take part in events and workshops and gain an insight into how research findings can help inform policy making.It is anticipated that the 9th Earl of Courtown will visit IRR in a reciprocal visit later this year to learn more about the research being carried out by Dr Lucas and his team.A key event on the agenda is the ‘Labs and Lawmakers: From Discovery to Impact’ Parliamentary reception, set for Wednesday evening. The event will feature speeches from prominent figures, including Baroness Brown of Cambridge FRS, Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society, and Chi Onwurah MP, Chair of the House of Commons Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee. At a time when science and scientists are under threat around the globe, programmes such as the Royal Society Pairing Scheme have never been more important. We must continue to strengthen links between scientists and policy makers. Having this group of UK scientists in Westminster to develop their understanding of policy making and share their expertise to shape it can help ensure research is translated into policy that improves lives. Sir Adrian Smith President of the Royal Society Lucas research groupThe Royal Society pairing scheme Tags CIR Publication date 26 Mar, 2025
