How NERC is governed

NERC advisory boards, committees and groups

NERC Council

NERC Council is responsible for providing independent scrutiny, challenge and support to the Natural Environment Research Council’s (NERC) Executive Chair to ensure the effective delivery of NERC’s mission.

Read more about NERC Council

Science Committee

The Science Committee brings broad strategic perspective and expertise to support the development and delivery of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and NERC strategic priorities, investments and policies.

Read more about the Science Committee

NERC Future Leaders Council

This is a new body within the NERC governance structure. The Future Leaders Council has a specific remit to advise NERC on the following areas:

  • digital
  • sustainability
  • public engagement
  • diversity and inclusion

Read more about the NERC Future Leaders Council

NERC Assurance Board

The Assurance Board provides a focus for assurance within NERC, supporting the Executive Chair in fulfilling their responsibilities.

Read more about the NERC Assurance Board

NERC Management Board

The NERC Management Board has responsibility for advising, and challenging the Executive Chair, Deputy Executive Chair and the NERC Executive team on planning and decision-making, to implement the delivery plan and practical operational arrangements. The board is informed by NERC Council’s strategic direction and guidance.

Read more about the NERC Management Board

NERC Senior Performance Related Pay Moderation Panel

The purpose of the moderation panel is to consider the performance-related pay element for senior UKRI staff employed within NERC prior to submission to the UKRI committee for final approval.

The committee is chaired by the Senior Independent Member of NERC Council and includes two Council members and the Executive Chair, with representation from the UKRI human resources team. It usually meets annually in the margins of the June Council meeting.

Strategic Relationship and Assurance Meetings (SRAM)

SRAM are bilateral meetings between NERC and each research centre. The purpose of the meetings is to provide assurance to NERC on their governance, management, financial sustainability and delivery of national capability activities.

It is also an opportunity to discuss the strategic relationship between NERC and the centre, the landscape in which it operates, and to identify future opportunities, threats and actions.

Read more about the Strategic Relationship and Assurance Meetings

NERC-BAS Operations and Safety Assurance and Advisory Group (NBOSAAG)

The NBOSAAG group was set up in early 2016 to:

  • provide the NERC Executive Chair with independent advice and assurance on Antarctic operations and safety
  • provide the NERC-owned British Antarctic Survey (BAS) with independent advice and support on Antarctic operations and safety matters

Read more about NBOSAAG

Last updated: 21 February 2024

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