The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) inspires audiences while funding science that’s relevant to society.
Our aims in engaging the public
We involve the public in environmental science research by:
- inspiring public audiences with environmental science topics and broadening participation
- promoting research that engages with the public
- developing the capacity of environmental science researchers to engage publicly
- holding dialogues to include public insights in research development
- improving science literacy
- encouraging young people to consider environmental science careers
- helping to create a future science research workforce
Public engagement at different stages of a grant
NERC encourages public engagement throughout the duration of a research grant, including by:
- using public dialogue to shape research in its early stages
- working alongside engaged members of the public, or researchers from other disciplines, as research is carried out
- involving the public in evaluating and communicating research results at the end of a grant, potentially influencing future research
UKRI’s good research resource hub has guidance on working with the public and wider society.
Sign up to the NERC email discussion list for people interested in public engagement with environmental science.
Last updated: 9 September 2026