I have recently launched a website, which I hope will be of some use to those attempting to navigate the complex science and society landscape.

I have often marvelled at the sheer volume and variety of organisations working in the so-called ‘science and society’ field. Within the UK alone there are hundreds of initiatives working at the interfaces between science and the public. Their specialisms generally centre on the key areas of science media or communication, science policy, public engagement or science education. Some larger bodies deal in all of these, and cover a wide range of disciplines. Others – often learned societies – specialise in a specific scientific discipline, but deal in a range of communication, policy, engagement and education concerns for that area. There are a surprising number of such learned societies, which represent the interests of those in a wild array of disciplines – from physics to bee research. It is not surprising then, that even for those who work in the field, it can be difficult to know what organisations are out there or exactly what they’re doing.

Organisations, events and jobs

My new website contains a directory of relevant organisations and initiatives – listing academic units, science communication initiatives and learned societies among others. There is also a calendar containing links to details of relevant events, such as the BA Science Communication Conference. The home page introduces some of the organisations and resources that I consider to be the essentials in four key areas: science policy, science media, science communication and science education. 

Above all, I hope the site will be of use to those who are looking for a job in the science and society field. In part, the idea of creating the site came about because I often encounter scientists who wish to move out of research, but also to continue to use their skills and knowledge to do something relevant. Such people can use the directory to identify organisations they would be interested in working for. Eventually, I hope to introduce a page where relevant organisations can post adverts for jobs and internship posts. 
 
Be in touch

I have already had some excellent feedback on the site, and many organisations have contacted me, requesting to be added. However, since I compile the site in my own free time, and on an entirely voluntary basis, the listings aren’t always up-to-the-minute. Still, with continued feedback from those in the know, I hope that the site will develop into something really useful.

I therefore encourage all of those in the field to contact me if there is anything they would like to see altered or added. I would particularly welcome input from those working in science education initiatives, and those wishing to list events on the calendar.
 
Gillian Pepper is a Science Policy and Communication Consultant