About Sciencewise
Sciencewise is a programme developed and funded by UK government which engages the public on decision making and policy related to science, innovation and research. It is highly reputable and internationally recognised as a globally leading public engagement programme enabling policies to be better socially informed with a particular emphasis on research, science and innovation.
Sciencewise does this by supporting government bodies to commission deliberative public dialogue within areas of research and development of interest to the government. Support includes up to 50 percent co-funding, expert advice and guidance. Public dialogues provide in-depth insight into the views, concerns and aspirations of a broadly representative sample of the population. This allows decision makers to develop policy which will be broadly supported by the public.
The Sciencewise programme is an exemplar of how to develop robust evidence on public views to inform policy development in areas of scientific and technological innovation. Established in 2004, the programme has supported over 50 dialogue projects. Sciencewise helps to ensure policy is informed by the views and aspirations of the public. The programme is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) with support from DSIT. Involve, the UK’s leading public participation charity, provides expert advice, assurance and support to the programme.
About the role
For nearly two decades, Involve has been involved in the management of the UKRI funded Sciencewise programme. The programme is at a key moment of transition as it ends the first year of the 2024-2030 programme, led by a consortium of Involve, the British Science Association, and the NCCPE. At the same time, there is a particular window of opportunity for impact as there is an increased commitment to science and technology by the national government as outlined in the spending review 2025, including commitment to Great British Energy, a renewed focus on innovation and new funding for AI innovation.
We are looking for a consultant for parental cover of the Sciencewise programme, pushing forward on our accelerators – increasing the quality and impact of the programme – as well as ensuring the gold standard projects and dialogues for which Sciencewise is renowned are being effectively developed. This is a chance to strategically lead the government’s flagship public engagement programme, and shape ambitions and scope for how we engage policymakers, researchers and members of the public. This role will help us take forward the Sciencewise programme and manage the consortium to take a step up in terms of impact.
We work across the UK, with offices in Belfast and London. Many of our staff work from home across the UK or in a hybrid pattern, rather than being based at one of our offices, though we meet up regularly as a team
Day rate: negotiable
Location: Flexible. Must be comfortable with regular travel both for project work and Involve team activities. Must be able to travel across the UK.
Hours: Approximately 16 hours per week for 7 months (4 August 2025 – 27 February 2026). There may be a possibility for extension.
Reporting to: Involve Chief Executive Officer
Download the job description to read more about the role, its responsibilities, and the competencies we’re looking for. You’ll find the job description at the bottom of this page.
How to apply
To apply, please provide all of the information below to [email protected] by Midday (12:00pm) on Monday 30 June 2025:
- i) A cover letter of no more than two sides of A4 outlining why you are interested in this role, how you meet the core competences, your personal details and your day rate.
- ii) A CV of no more than two sides of A4. The CV should include a summary of your: work experience, volunteering experience (if any), and education history.
- iii) Contact details for two references.
Diversity monitoring (optional): please complete the Google form
If you are unable to complete your application, require further adjustments, or have questions about the role please contact us at [email protected]
Selection process and key dates
Your application will be blind reviewed, to reduce the impact of subconscious bias in the application review process.
Your personal details and diversity monitoring information will not be seen by the assessor.
References will only be taken up upon appointment.
This post is only open to candidates who have the right to work in the UK.
We’re actively building a diverse team and welcome applications from everyone. But simply having a diverse workforce is not enough. We aim to build an inclusive environment, where everyone can contribute their best work and develop to their full potential. We celebrate our differences, and recognise the importance of teams reflecting the communities they work with. We can make reasonable adjustments to our interview process, and to working arrangements, according to your needs. If you are shortlisted for an interview, we will explain what the interview process will involve in advance and check with you if we need to make any adjustments so that you can interview fairly and comfortably. We will also cover any reasonable expenses to enable you to attend the interview.
Closing date: Midday (12:00 pm) on Monday 30 June 2025.
Applications submitted after this date and time will not be considered.
Interviews will take place Tuesday 8 July and Wednesday 9 July via Zoom. There may be a second interview before the final decision.
Shortlisted candidates can expect to hear by Wednesday 2 July 2025 if they are being invited to interview.
