Ever wanted to know what we get up to on the RSC graduate scheme? In this blog, members of our graduate scheme describe some of the interesting (or unusual!) activities and projects they are working on, as well as what it is like to work in a variety of departments across the RSC.
From universities to Parliament, it’s all change in Science!
After finishing my rotation in Membership Development with two recruitment visits in Dublin, it was time for me to head back upstairs and join the Science Team for my final rotation. From being out and about a lot and talking to people during recruitment visits it was a bit of a shock to find myself in front of a computer with lots of reading to do, but I’m in the swing of it now. The main focus of this rotation is to look at the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF)Impact Case Studies; each university submitted examples of their research and looked at the impacts it has had, for example economic benefits, informing policy or improving healthcare, with this information contributing towards the REF’s assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.
As well as writing short summaries of all 125 chemistry case studies for use by members of the Science Team, I’ve selected several that showcase research with significant economic impacts that will be included in a brochure aimed at policymakers to inform them of the importance of maintaining science funding. This involves summarising the often technical research in a way that makes it accessible to a wider audience, interviewing the researchers to get quotes to make the case studies more personal, working with Design to create the format of the brochure, and preparing for the launch event in Parliament. There’s a lot to be done but I’m looking forward to seeing the finished result, and hopefully it will help highlight just how important science research is to the UK economy.
I’ve also contributed to the Royal Society of Chemistry’s response to the Nurse Review call for evidence, which is looking at the ways the research councils in the UK can evolve to support research in the most effective ways. This was the first time I’d contributed to a statement like this, talking not just as myself but on behalf of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and it was really interesting see how a response like this was approached within the team.
In addition to the work as part of my placement, there’s everything else you can get involved with as part of the grad scheme. Initial judging has started for the Bill Bryson Prize for Science Communication, with the theme of ‘chance’ for 2015; I’ve seen videos, scripts, paintings, songs – all sorts! I’ve also had the chance to review a book – Science for Life – which appears in this month’s issue of our member’s magazine Chemistry World. Keep a look out to see what I thought! Vicki is a Graduate currently working in the Science Team on the Royal Society of Chemistry's Graduate Scheme. To see if we are currently recruiting for the RSC Graduate Scheme clickhere.
From universities to Parliament, it’s all change in Science!
