What we do

The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) is an impartial research and knowledge exchange service based in the UK Parliament. We work to ensure cutting-edge research evidence and expertise is available to members of both houses of parliament, covering emerging or complex science and social science topics.

POST:

  • Publishes impartial briefings, drawing on cutting-edge research evidence, and tailored to the needs of parliament. Our unique approach involves extensive consultation with experts and stakeholders. We focus on topical issues where the research evidence is emerging or particularly complex, covering science and social science, from health and the environment to housing and computing.
  • Helps parliamentarians connect with external experts through our UK-wide network of academic and research institutions.

Our history

Watch this quick video to learn about the history of POST and what we do.

Our work

  • Research

    We produce impartial, accurate and peer-reviewed briefings to make emerging or particularly complex research evidence accessible to parliament, covering science and social science topics.

  • Horizon scanning

    We organise horizon scanning activities to help parliament plan for the future.

  • Rapid Evidence Assessments

    Rapid Evidence Assessments are reports that are produced quickly, based on a comprehensive search of academic databases. They are delivered in partnership with researchers from UK universities.

  • Fellowships

    Joining a POST Fellowship is a once in a lifetime opportunity to work at the epicentre of UK policymaking. Our fellows learn how to write impartial, rigorous policy briefings, and better understand parliament and its work.

  • Resources

    Our resources help experts, students, and parliamentarians understand how policy and research intersect, including guides on how to identify quality evidence, write briefings and more.

  • Knowledge exchange

    POST’s Knowledge Exchange Unit facilitates the exchange of information and expertise between researchers and parliament through a UK-wide network of academic and research institutions.

  • International work

    We work with legislatures around the world to strengthen global scientific advisory capabilities.

  • The POST Board

    The POST Board provides us with advice on our work. It meets quarterly to help ensure that we reflect the interests of parliament.

Work with us

Stay connected

  • Contact us

    Contact our team of advisers, knowledge exchange managers, and science communications experts.

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