The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) aims to make cutting-edge research evidence and expertise on complex science and social science topics available to members of both houses of parliament.
The AsSIST UK Executive Committee have been discussing with POST colleagues how our members could contribute to this work which focuses on many issues and areas that STIS colleagues are already investigating.
POST publishes a programme of future research which highlights specific areas of enquiry and upcoming POSTnotes. – which capture the state of the art on current debates.
POST staff highlighted opportunities to contribute directly as an expert through fellowship and internship schemes targeting different stages in academic careers.
Parliamentary Thematic Research Leads (TRLs)
see https://www.parliament.uk/trls/
These part-time roles (three days per week over two years) based within the UK Parliament offer researchers the opportunity to contribute directly to evidence-informed policymaking through activities such as supporting select committees, producing briefing materials, and shaping knowledge exchange initiatives. The programme is recruiting across several strategic areas, including AI and digital technologies, health and life sciences, education, criminal justice, infrastructure/clean energy, national security/resilience, and place-based economic growth. Applications for the upcoming (2027-9) round close on Sunday 9 August 2026
There are also POST PhD Fellowships where PhD students in a UK HEI can spend cca. 3 months working with a committee or team on a particular topic.
AsSIST UK Executive Committee will be liaising with POST about its future research priorities and plans and may be able to facilitate links with relevant academics.
However we encourage members to sign up with POST to hear about their work.
