NBIC x Policy Seminar with Prof Paul Cairney, 2 December 2026
Join the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC) on Wednesday 2 December 2026 for the first session in our new hybrid seminar series, NBIC x Policy, exploring how science informs policy, from how evidence is weighed to the careers that connect the two.
Designed for researchers at every career stage, the series will help you understand how scientific evidence feeds into policymaking, how you can play a part, and whether a career in policy could be for you.
Conversation 1: Prof Paul Cairney, University of Stirling
We’re delighted to open the series with Prof Paul Cairney, a leading expert on how evidence is used (or not used) in policymaking. Paul will give a short introduction to UK policymaking and policy science: where researchers can contribute, and the realities of doing so. He’ll explore why policymakers don’t act on research, and compare the many sources of advice they draw on. The rest of the session will be shaped by questions from the audience, with plenty of time for discussion both in the room and online. This seminar will lay the foundations for the rest of the series, where we’ll hear from speakers with STEMM backgrounds now working in policy roles.
About Paul
Paul Cairney is Professor of Politics and Public Policy at the University of Stirling, UK (LinkedIn, Bluesky). His research interests are in comparative public policy, policy analysis, and policy theories, applied to UK and devolved government policy, and the use of evidence in policy and policymaking.
He is also co-PI and Policy Lead of FORTH2O, a UKRI-funded partnership working to improve water quality and resilience in the Forth Valley.
Why attend?
- Gain insight into how UK policy is made
- Understand how your research becomes evidence, and why it may not be used
- Explore career options and pathways beyond academia
- Ask candid questions and get practical advice
Format
- 60-minute hybrid session, with a large portion dedicated to Q&A
- Join in person in Edinburgh or online via Microsoft Teams (link provided ahead of the session)
To register for this seminar, please visit the Eventbrite page.