Research and policy: an insider’s look

What was your initial motivation to start working on climate policy?

Climate change represents, in my opinion, the greatest challenge that our economies and societies face today. It is becoming increasingly apparent that failing to rise to this challenge will have devastating consequences, not only for future generations, but for our own lives as well. As such, I believe that all academic disciplines should contribute to the task before us: ensuring the successful decarbonisation of our economies, conducted in a way that is as fair, just, and equitable as possible. Working from a governance perspective, I am fascinated by the political contexts which have historically held the green transition back and the developments that we have seen in the last 6-7 years which are now propelling it forward. The European Green Deal itself and the most recent pieces of EU climate policy legislation –the European Climate Law and the Fit for 55 Package –are also politically supercharged texts. An understanding of the political ideas underpinning legislative developments is crucial in order to assess what types of political discourse are ultimately successful in driving climate ambition forward. In sum, I was motivated to start a career researching the politics and governance of climate change because I believe that, through my work, I can contribute (in my own little way) to understanding how our societies can take on the green transition.

What were the pros and the cons of moving from a role as research and policy analyst to an academic role?

That is a good question. Firstly, I believe that careers in both academic and public policy can be incredibly rich and fulfilling. I also have the opinion that holders of doctorates should not shy away from using their talents in policy. I think that we often hold the belief that one has to choose between academia or policy but, in reality, I feel that mobility between the two sectors over the course of one’s career can have benefits for both the researcher as well as public sector and university employers. In terms of pros and cons, academia offers much more flexibility and independence than most public sector roles. As academics, we get quite a high level of freedom to determine our own research agendas and programs. Whereas in policy, of course, you are contributing to the mandate and goals of your employer. Academic jobs also often come with teaching opportunities – which, as most of us know, can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. There are definitely some pros to working in policy as well. You are often working side-by-side with teammates and there can be a lot of collective excitement when a goal is reached. Academic careers always have some moments of isolation which you don’t really ever feel in policy. I feel that there is potential for really exciting opportunities in both sectors and that holders of doctorates can certainly get a lot out of moving between the two.

In your opinion, can research have a substantial impact on policy? If so, how? Yes, I do believe that research can have a substantial impact on policy. More and more, governments are being compelled to develop sound evidence-based policy. Academics are increasingly being consulted by public sector authorities. In terms of EU governance, the Commission and the Parliament have a wide range of research services and regularly reach out to the academic community. I also think that academics themselves are beginning to realize the importance of making their work accessible to policymakers. Initiatives like writing policy briefs and reports based on journal articles are becoming an increasingly common form of outreach. There does seem to be recognition on the part of the Commission and many member state governments that academics play a crucial role in understanding the opportunities and barriers presented by the green transition. Through horizon projects, policy reports, consulting work, and public lectures, academics have more opportunities to engage with policymakers than ever before.