Translating research into policy is essential for societal progress, ensuring policymaking is grounded in the best available evidence. Addressing challenges such as climate change, sustainable energy, pandemics, and inequality highlights the vital role of science and the need for researchers to engage in policymaking. Yet, connecting research and policy presents challenges for academics, policymakers, and wider society.
Funded by Research Ireland, the ERPI (Engaged Research for Policy Impact) Study explores researcher–policymaker interactions in Ireland through the lens of individual researchers. This two-year project, based at the Institute for Lifecourse and Society (ILAS), is led by an interdisciplinary team of academics and policymakers. It contributes to growing debates on societal impact, engaged research (e.g. citizen science, PPI), science advocacy, and policy impact. The ERPI Study particularly examines how engaged research approaches shape academic–policy engagement across disciplines and career stages.
The methodology comprises three interrelated work packages. WP1 is a national survey of research-focused academics. WP2 involves in-depth interviews with researchers across disciplines and career stages, as well as leaders in engaged research. WP3 broadens the focus to academia, policymakers, and wider society. In year two, findings from WP1 and WP2 will be shared and discussed with higher education institutions, government departments, civil service organisations, and other key actors in the research–policy ecosystem. This consultation process aims to enhance the relevance and impact of the study outputs and shape the design of final recommendations. Through this integrated process of research, consultation, and dissemination, the ERPI Study seeks to advance dialogue on how researchers can best support government and civil service in strengthening policy development and foresight.
