Tiffany

Today, I had the privilege of representing the Geological Society of London in the House of Commons as part of an event called Voice of the Future.

Voice of the Future provides an opportunity for young scientists and early career researchers to act as a select committee and ask MPs questions about areas they are passionate about.

I was lucky to have been selected to ask 2 questions; one about what the UK government can do to help build the robust geoscience workforce we need to tackle current and future geo related issues and my other question asked what steps the UK government is taking to ensure that the critical and strategic minerals we need for the energy transition are sourced ethically and sustainably.

It was really interesting to see the intersection between science and policy as well as meet ministers and early career researchers in completely different fields. One of the speakers mentioned how as (young) scientists, regardless of political positions, we should endeavour to make our science accessible and contribute to wider society. This really highlighted the importance of science communication to me and how it can also play a role in policy.

(Unfortunately, photos weren't allowed in most of the building so this is the best I can do haha)

Thank you to the @geolsoc for such an amazing opportunity and the Royal Society of Biology for organizing this event.

#science #sciencecommunication #scicomm #blackwomaninstem #academic #policymaking #freshgraduate #vof2024