Bridging the Gap: The Importance of Engagement with Policymakers for Academic Researchers

Engaging with policymakers and decision makers is crucial for academics and researchers who aim to make an impact on policy and thereby increase their chances of securing future research funding. By actively participating in the policy making process, researchers can ensure their work goes beyond being another addition to the vast array of academic literature but also has a tangible impact on society.

Academic research can provide vital insights and evidence to inform policy decisions, leading to more effective and scientifically grounded policies. Without the input of researchers, policymakers might end up, despite their best efforts, relying on outdated or incomplete information, resulting in less effective outcomes. Furthermore, by engaging with policymakers, researchers can align their work with current societal needs and policy priorities, thereby enhancing the relevance and impact of their work.

One thing academic researchers must keep in mind is that communicating to policy makers is distinctly different from writing for academic audiences. While academic writing and communication typically involves comprehensive literature reviews, detailed methodologies, detailed presentations and theoretical discussions aimed at contributing to scholarly discourse, communication with policymakers needs to be concise, easily digestible, practical, and action oriented. Policymakers and stakeholders, who may not have a background in the field, require clear and accessible communication of research findings. Policy briefs, executive summaries, and reports are common formats that serve this purpose. Likewise, meetings with, and presentations to politicians, and to some extent to civil servants too, need to be concise, clear and put across in a way that they can readily understand.

It is also essential to understand the political landscape to engage effectively. Researchers need to be aware of the current political environment, including key issues, legislative agendas, and the positions of influential policymakers. This knowledge allows them to tailor their messages to align with current priorities and anticipate potential receptiveness to their findings. Additionally, identifying relevant stakeholders, such as government agencies, advocacy groups, and industry leaders, is crucial for building relationships and ensuring research findings reach those in a position to implement change.

Familiarising themselves with the UK decision-making systems and the bodies and processes that lead to policy enactment or change is particularly important for researchers. In the UK, bodies such as the House of Commons, the House of Lords, various government departments, and advisory committees play key roles in the policy-making process. Understanding how these bodies operate and interact can help researchers navigate the system more effectively and identify opportunities to contribute to policy discussions.

But why is all of this important? Well, besides ensuring your work brings tangible value to our society by helping us make policy decisions based on clear evidence, securing research funding often depends on demonstrating the policy relevance and societal impact of one's work. In the UK, several funding schemes emphasise this aspect. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) assesses the quality of research in higher education institutions, with a significant portion of the evaluation based on the impact of research on policy and society. High-scoring institutions receive a larger share of government funding, making it essential for researchers to engage with policymakers and demonstrate the practical applications of their work.

Besides the REF, other notable funding opportunities include the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and Innovate UK. The ESRC supports research that has the potential to influence policy and practice, with a focus on economic and social issues. Innovate UK, on the other hand, funds projects that drive innovation and have clear commercial and societal benefits. Both organisations value proposals that highlight the policy implications and potential impact of the research.

For academics and researchers, engaging with policymakers is not just beneficial—it is imperative for maximizing the impact of their work. By mastering the art of policy communication, understanding the political context, and identifying key stakeholders, researchers can ensure their findings inform policy decisions and address societal needs. Moreover, this engagement enhances their prospects for future research funding, enabling them to continue their valuable contributions to knowledge and society.