‘Policy engagement’ refers to the process by which 
scientists and researchers inform and influence 
public policy, ensuring that decisions are evidence-
based and reflect the latest scientific advancements. 
This engagement bridges the gap between 
research, policymaking, and the public, fostering an 
informed community and effective governance. 
‘Science diplomacy’ involves the use of scientific 
collaborations among nations to address common 
problems and build constructive international 
partnerships. In the context of biofilm research, 
these efforts not only enhance scientific 
understanding but also address global challenges, 
from healthcare to environmental management.  
To better equip the biofilms community 
with an understanding of the UK’s policy 
landscape, we maintain a dedicated Policy 
Noticeboard. This resource includes:
•	 Updates on current and future policy 
opportunities related to the biofilm sector;
•	 Resources that outline the policy-making 
processes in the UK and its Devolved Nations;
•	 On-demand, free training resources as a starting 
point for anyone interested in this space. 
Biofilm researchers are increasingly expected 
to engage broadly with policymakers, industry, 
and the public, a challenge intensified by the 
interdisciplinary nature of their work around biofilms. 
The adaptability of biofilms makes them 
pivotal in addressing global challenges such as 
antimicrobial resistance, climate change, water 
management, or agricultural sustainability. 
NBIC representatives have previously 
given testimony to the House of Commons 
Science and Technology Committee:
•	 NBIC CEO, Professor Jo Slater-
Jefferies (19 October 2022).
•	 NBIC Edinburgh Co-Director, Cait 
MacPhee (1 July 2025).
ACTIVITIES 
•	 NBIC was invited to provide policy training 
to international attendees at COST ACTION: 
Pathways to Regulatory, Standards & Policy 
Impact workshop in Manchester (May 2026). 
•	 NBIC BITE PhD Policy Engagement Training 
in Edinburgh (February 2026). 
•	 Launch of NBIC-LIVE at Westminster 
in London (June 2026). 
NEW BLOGS
•	 Biofilms in Policy: Consumer Products 
and the Fight against Biofilms.
•	 A Short Guide to the UK Biofilm 
Policy Landscape.
QR CODE
UK LEADERSHIP IN BIOFILMS 
THROUGH POLICY ENGAGEMENT 
AND SCIENCE DIPLOMACY 
POLICY NOTICEBOARD
Policy Engagement
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