A Lancaster University scientist has visited politicians in Westminster as part of a pairing scheme run by the Royal Society.

Dr Jessica Almine from the Faculty of Health and Medicine shadowed Government scientist Dr Francesca Gauntlett at the House of Commons for a week.

Dr Francesca Gauntlett is Head of International Disease Monitoring at The Government’s Animal Plant and Health Agency APHA where Dr Almine learned about her work.

The visit was part of a unique pairing scheme run by the Royal Society – the UK’s national academy of science, with support from the Government Science & Engineering (GSE) profession.

As well as attending seminars and panel discussions about how evidence is used in policymaking, Dr Almine also attended a mock Select Committee in Westminster.

She said: “I have gained a wealth of knowledge about the people in Westminster, in Whitehall and the ecosystem around them that work in a highly dynamic and responsive field to ensure the orderly governing of the country and planning for future improvements and possibilities.

“If I have learnt anything from this experience is that it is important to push my boundaries and keep trying new things. The experiences I’ve had and the people I’ve met have enriched my life and clarified my career goals.”

The Royal Society’s pairing scheme, which started in 2001, aims to build bridges between parliamentarians, civil servants and some of the best scientists in the UK.

Dr Almine said: “I would highly recommend the pairing scheme to any scientist interested in understanding the role of science in government, seeing alternative career paths, and how scientists can better engage with the Government and the public.”

Dr Francesca Gauntlett will make a return visit to Lancaster University when she visits Dr Almine on campus next year.