Applications have now opened for a new round of fellowships with the UK Government as it looks to recruit technologists and scientists to boost public sector transformation.
Launched by the Department or Science, Innovation and Technology, the C-suite HR dive is the latest evidence that Britain’s policymakers are now recognising the need to introduce private sector mindsets and approaches into government services that urgently need an innovation overhaul. Previously, Downing Street has expressed a desire to encourage a ‘startup attitude’ across departments.
The year-long placements are designed to welcome the UK’s ‘best and brightest’ at a regulatory level, meaning they would be called upon to advise on new legislation and protocols. Not only would this ensure all levels of administration benefit from cutting edge infrastructure and systems, it would also mean ties between public and private sector would be strengthened. A core goal of the scheme is also to help double the number of civil servants working in digital roles.
This is the third cohort of the Fellowship programme and 25 places are available. Applications will close on 3rd June. Full details can be found here.
‘This is how we open up government – by bringing together the UK’s leading scientific and technological talent to directly shape policy and drive the innovation at the heart of our Plan for Change,’ said Lord Vallance, Science Minister. ‘By harnessing expertise across academia and industry, we are embedding expert knowledge to tackle key challenges – from strengthening digital resilience to ensuring the UK leads in AIand quantum technologies. This Fellowship creates a lasting partnership between government, academia, and business to unlock new solutions, accelerate progress, and drive long-term growth – ensuring science and innovation remain central to shaping our economy and society.’
Four key themes are represented in the placements. These include AI (including deepfake threats, science, regulation and adoption), technology (such as semiconductors, digital standards and resilient telecoms networks), future thinking (quantum, climate and space policy), and public sector innovation (spanning digital inclusion to commercial innovation).
I’m not an observer. I’m part of the team and working with others on a wide range of different emerging technology topics,’ he continued. ‘I’ve learnt a huge amount about how academic advice is commissioned, and used, within government, and the many ways in which academics can engage with government. I’ll take these learnings with me when I go back to my home institution and think about potential policy impacts of my work in electronic engineering.’
Image: Rui Chamberlain / Unsplash
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