This workshop will provide an introduction to the EU policymaking process and the role of science advice in the European Union; offer insights on how to engage EU policymakers effectively, including in a post-Brexit context; and enable exchange with UCL academic colleagues with established networks and experience in this space.

The workshop will also signpost to existing sources of support within UCL, and establish priorities for future training sessions. [N.B. Please note that this workshop will not cover EU funding]

Who should come?

This workshop is primarily targeted at early to mid-career researchers, with an interest in better understanding the EU policy landscape, developing networks in Brussels, and creating opportunities for their research to inform EU policy. It is also open to professional services staff in knowledge brokerage/knowledge mobilisation roles.

There are 30 places available.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants should have:

An understanding of the EU policy-making process and current EU political priorities
An understanding of the formal structures for science advice in the EU, including the role of the Scientific Advice Mechanism, the Joint Research Centre (JRC) and the European Parliament Research Services (EPRS)
Actionable insights on how to monitor EU policy developments, identify key stakeholders, and engage members of the policy community effectively
An overview of sources of support at UCL, and the opportunity to network with other staff with an interest in informing EU policymaking/with established networks and experience in this space

Programme

09:30-10:00: Arrival and networking [Refreshments served]10:00-10:15: Welcome & introductions

10:15-10:45: An introduction to science for policy in the EU by Dr Toby Wardman, Head of Communications, Science Advice for Policy by European Academies (SAPEA)

10:45-11:15: Science advice in the EU: A view from the European Parliament by Dr Alex Wilson, EU Energy Policy Specialist, European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS)

11:15-11:30: Q&A with external speakers11:30-12:15: Case studies & experience-sharing

Prof Slavo Radosevic, SSEES
Prof Claire Colomb, Bartlett
Prof David Coen, SPS
Dr Michael Veale, Laws

12:15-12:30: Sources of support at UCL

12:30 onwards: Sandwiches and networking

Workshop: Engaging with EU policymakers (face-to-face)