Knowledgescotland - Supporting Scotland’s Future in Science and Policy.

A novel approach to keeping policy makers in touch with the latest research on food, health, environment and rural sectors was launched this week. The “knowledgescotland” programme is designed to help scientists work more effectively with Government and others planning Scotland’s future. Supported by Scottish Government the initiative offers a focal point for researchers at SAC, the Macaulay Land Use Research Institute, the Moredun Research Institute, SCRI and the Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen.

According to Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment.

“The world-class research these organisations collectively provide is helping tackle major challenges. This exciting new initiative will help deliver key outputs from the scientific community. I am particularly pleased that the needs of policy makers for accessible, readily understood information has been recognised”.

While www.knowledgescotland.org puts science policy connections on line it is only part of a wider initiative designed to change the culture of communication between the science and policy communities. The web site carries interactive briefings allowing direct contact between scientists and those directly interested in policy. However in addition a programme of open doors events, work shadowing, secondments and other forms of joint working is planned.

Among those welcoming www.knowledgescotland.org is Dr George Paterson, Director of Food Standards Agency Scotland.

“As an evidence- based organisation we welcome this new initiative. This new and useful information will assist in the development of policies aimed at improving food safety and standards to protect the health of the Scottish population”.

By registering at www.knowledgescotland.org you can receive regular policy briefings on research programmes at your desk. You can contribute comments, use policy related web links from the main research providers, view the programme of events and activities on line and chose which to participate in.

For further information please contact Dr Sue Bird, Knowledge Transfer Manager, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health. 01224 716668 email: sue.bird@abdn.ac.uk