The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology
Get the latest COVID-19 analysis, as evidence becomes available
The most common scientific terms used in research that relates to COVID-19. This glossary will help you understand materials that describe the biology of Coronavirus and the spread of COVID-19. It can assist in the reading of research papers and help you understand language used in drug and vaccine development. It also has a comprehensive list of international and UK organisations involved in public health, their institutional acronyms and descriptions of their work.
What is Long COVID ? How many people are affected? What are the key challenges for diagnosis and treatment? What are the priority areas for research?
The Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, has been found across the world since it was first detected in early November 2021. This article describes the characteristics of the variant, why scientists are concerned, and the possible impact that it might have on the course of the pandemic.
Impartial balanced and peer reviewed analysis of new and emerging research
Zoonoses are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. This POSTnote summarises approaches to preventing zoonoses with pandemic potential by targeting animal-environment-human interactions. It reviews current biosecurity measures in the UK and globally, notes lessons from COVID-19 and identifies future strategies.
What is Long COVID ? How many people are affected? What are the key challenges for diagnosis and treatment? What are the priority areas for research?
This POSTnote provides an overview of adult upskilling and retraining in the UK. It outlines the national context around adult education, including issues around supply and demand of skills as well as funding and participation rates. It also discusses the key outcomes and impacts of adult learning. This briefing focuses on 19+ adult learning and excludes university education.
Contribute to upcoming POST work
This POSTnote will summarise current innovations in adult social care. It will review existing case studies and supporting evidence across the UK.
20 to 21% of adults in the UK report having a disability. Many disabilities cannot be observed physically. This POSTnote will review current employment rights and potential future adjustments for people with disabilities.
Destructive agricultural, forestry and fishery subsidies cancel out biodiversity funding. This POSTnote will look at the financial risks arising from investments that lead to biodiversity loss.
