Training needs identified: How to strengthen the science-to-policy interface

FutureFoodS aims to improve how scientific research informs policymaking by strengthening the science-to-policy interface (SPI) for sustainable food systems transformation. As part of Work Package 8, we have explored how research-based advice to policymakers is used and organized between research organizations and policy makers (civil servants) across Europe at national and regional levels. Our aim is to exchange principles and practices to enable trans-European collaboration in providing research-based advice to policy makers including identifying ways to  strengthen dialogues as part of SPIs. To explore this, we organized a web-search on training resources was performed, a Europe-wide survey among civil servants, and a dedicated webinar to gather direct feedback from both researchers and policymakers. The key findings from these activities are shared in the article below.

Availability of training resources

A web-based search using the phrase “Science to Policy” identified 19 organizations and publications of varying relevance. Most were not formal training materials,but could serve as background or inspiration. Overall, this search confirmed the limited availability of structured training.

Survey among civil servants: High interest

This survey aimed to understand how scientific advice is currently used in policymaking at national and regional levels. The results helped identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement. Scientific advice is clearly valued in policy formulation, especially in developing specific policy proposals and, to a lesser extent, across the policy cycle.

Preliminary data from the survey revealed that 80% of the civil servants who responded believe scientific advice is valued as part of an ongoing dialogue between policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders. Around 60% reported having their own sectoral research institutes, and the same proportion confirmed that scientific advice is often formalized through contracts with knowledge institutions. However, less than 40% indicated that their organizations have formal procedures in place to ensure an “arm’s length” relationship between researchers and policymakers.

When asked whether scientific advice is used to justify specific policy decisions, responses were more divided: 30% agreed, 25% disagreed, and 40% remained neutral. Meanwhile, 65% of respondents acknowledged the presence of national-level standing committees focused on Food Systems policy. A slightly smaller majority (55%) highlighted the importance of quality assurance and research integrity in the science-policy process.

Regarding training, responses indicated a clear gap: only 19% had received training in managing science-policy interfaces, 35% had received some limited exposure, and 45% reported no training at all. Interest in training is strong: 73% expressed a willingness to participate in or receive materials related to training in the future.

Webinar: Reinforcing the Need for Action

A dedicated webinar gathered researchers and civil servants to reflect on their experience with research-based advice and training in this matter. Most participants reported little or no training and limited awareness of available materials. However, a broad consensus emerged around the critical role of a strong science-to-policy interface and the need to exchange and develop training materials and courses to ensure the principles and proper processes in SPI.

Conclusions and Next Steps

Across all three sources - web search, survey, and webinar - a clear message emerged: there is a significant gap in formal training about the science-to-policy interface for both researchers and civil servants. As a next step, FutureFoodS proposes further exchanges between civil servants and researchers across partner countries regarding principles and practices for SPI as a basis for developing a curriculum for a training course. This effort will form the basis for a future training offer tailored to strengthen the science-policy-society interface in support of the Sustainable Food Systems transition.

Want to know more?

Get in touch with Niels Halberg of Aarhus University, Leader of the current WP8.

Next
Next

Update - Follow-up survey for interested new partners