British Science Association : perspectives

Scientists are increasingly being asked to communicate ethical and social issues that arise from their work.

However, there are few opportunities for researchers at the beginning of their careers to develop their skills in discussing the social implications of their research.

Postgraduate and postdoctoral scientists, engineers and social scientists funded by one of the UK research councils are encouraged to explore the social and ethical implications of their research by entering perspectives - a poster session with a difference.

Read about our 2009 Winners

See all the 2009 finalist's posters and Hear some of the finalists on Leading Edge (BBC Radio 4).

Overall winner:
Gemma Webster, School of Computing, University of Dundee (EPSRC) What's in a label?

Runners up:

Adam Elliston, Institute of Food Research (BBSRC) Fuel from waste
Susannah Fleming, University of Oxford (EPSRC) ...or meningitis?
Christopher Jones, Rothamsted Research (BBSRC) The feud in the field
Bethan Lowder, University of Edinburgh (BBSRC) Globalisation & the farming industry
Penelope Mason, Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford (ESRC), Ageing: no escape?

Learn more about the scheme from the perspectives film.

Research Councils UK supported the scheme. In 2009, 36 researchers were selected to design and exhibit a poster at the 2009 British Science Festival held at the University of Surrey.

Want to find out more? View some frequently asked questions.

"We believe that scientists have a duty - particularly when they are funded by taxpayers - to engage in the public arena, to engage in communication of the challenges and the potential ethical concerns about their science"

Lord Drayson, UK Science Minister (July 2009)