Policy engagement
ADR Scotland bridges the gap between research and government by aligning our research themes with key Scottish Government priorities and policy commitments. We work closely with government to shape evidence plans and research opportunities, engaging with policy officials, analysts and ministers to ensure that research using administrative data delivers real public value.
Governments across the UK place evidence and analysis at the centre of policy design, delivery and evaluation, drawing heavily on academic research. Evidence is used throughout the policy cycle to identify issues, assess impacts, test ideas, evaluate outcomes and support transparent decision making.
Government analysts - spanning social research, economics, statistics, operational research and other specialist roles - work alongside policy officials and academic experts to generate high‑quality analysis.
In Scotland, academics engage with government through a range of routes, including advisory groups, fellowships, roundtables, peer review, commissioned research and training for officials. Effective engagement requires an understanding of Scotland’s policy landscape, clear communication, and shared expectations around confidentiality and the use of information.
Researchers should present findings in an accessible way, link evidence clearly to policy implications, and recognise that research informs, but does not determine, policy decisions.
Academics at all career stages can get involved through Areas of Research Interest (ARIs), funding schemes, placements and early collaboration on research proposals.
Below is a guide to the key ways you can connect with policymakers and get involved.
Areas of Research Interest
Following the recommendations of the 2015 Nurse Review of Research Councils, all UK administrations publish Areas of Research Interest (ARIs). These set out key research themes, topics and questions that are integral to driving forward evidence-informed policymaking.
Government panels and expert groups
The Scottish Government publishes information on its working groups and expert panels, including minutes, terms of reference and contact details. These groups are an important mechanism for supporting policy development and draw on experts with a wide range of knowledge and experience relevant to their area of focus.
Fellowships and internship programmes
Funding opportunities are regularly shared through our social media channels. Some key recurring opportunities include:
- UKRI Policy Fellowship Programme
The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Policy Fellowship Programme offers placements of up to 18 months for early- and mid-career academics. Fellows co-design research with the Scottish Government, contributing to policy development in priority areas. Applicants must be based at an organisation eligible for UKRI funding and hold a PhD or have equivalent experience. The programme runs periodically (annually or biennially). Full details and eligibility criteria are available on the UKRI website.
- SGSSS PhD Internship Programme
The Scottish Government / Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) Internship Programme runs twice a year. It provides social science PhD students with the opportunity to undertake a three-month internship within the Scottish Government while continuing their studies. Projects are typically exploratory and self-contained, with structured support and mentoring. These internships offer valuable experience, helping students build professional networks and explore careers in applied research within government. Applications are made through the SGSSS website, with calls typically open in February (spring intake) and July (autumn intake).
Get in touch
If you are interested in finding out more about how to engage with policymakers, we would be happy to hear from you.
