The Science Council Statement from the Presidents’ Roundtable on the Visibility and Perceptions of Careers in Science

The Science Council, representing over 30 professional bodies and learned societies that reach more than 340,000 scientists, is highlighting that current policies and practices risk undermining the visibility, accessibility, and sustainability of science careers in the UK.

The most senior representatives of the scientific community from our Member Bodies and Learned Societies met to discuss how to overcome significant challenges affecting the visibility and accessibility of careers in science and their progression.

Evidence shows that while young people value science, structural barriers and workplace practices are limiting participation and progression – posing a risk to the future science workforce at a time of growing national and global demand.

We call on the Government, education providers and employers to act collectively to remove barriers, modernise pathways and ensure that science careers are open, visible and accessible to all. To address the challenges, we must:

• Ensure multiple accessible routes into science, including apprenticeships and other technical qualifications to expand opportunity and complement academic pathways such as university and postdoctoral fellowships. All routes must be supported by financially viable pathways for people from all backgrounds. Diversity of people, backgrounds and thought leads to better science outcomes and solutions.
• Broaden perceptions of science careers by highlighting varied roles, pathways and definitions of success and emphasising the transferable value of scientific skills and the diverse ways in which careers in science can evolve over a working lifespan.
• Improve visibility of real career opportunities so individuals can clearly understand the outcomes and possibilities associated with studying science, and that new possibilities are emerging all the time.
• Strengthen interdisciplinary approaches within science to respond effectively to the complex challenges of a modern world.
• Embed work-readiness and interdisciplinary skills across science education to align with industry’s evolving needs.
• Create inclusive and supportive educational settings and workplaces that foster belonging, inclusivity, retention and progression across the science workforce.

Organisations at the Presidents’ Roundtable meeting: