Voice of the Future at UK Parliament

Voice of the Future is an event organized by the Royal Society of Biology where early-career researchers come to the Houses of Parliament and discuss science policy issues with MPs and other key political figures.

This year’s event was on March 13 and was attended by the newly-appointed Science Minister Sam Gyimah MP, Shadow Minister Chi Onwurah MP, Stephen Metcalfe MP together with Science & Technology Select Committee colleagues, and Dr Rupert Lewis, the Director of the Government Office for Science.

qBioNano’s Mattias was invited to represent the Royal Society of Chemistry and asked two questions on behalf of the Society.

8 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean each year causing damage to marine ecosystems. Is the 25 year environment plan good enough and quick enough to minimize plastic waste and ensure the protection of our oceans?

Recent studies have shown that around one-third of early-career researchers (such as PhD students) show signs of clinical depression. This indicates a potential failure of academic institutions to safeguard the work-life balance and mental well-being of researchers. What new resources and efforts is the Government and Parliament planning to deploy to help us fully understand and address this important issue?

The event was broadcast live on Parliament TV and is available to watch here. The event will also be broadcast on BBC Parliament on Saturday, March 17, at 6 pm.

More information: Royal Society of Biology’s news story, Twitter moments and official photos of the event.