Science
The Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) is responsible for the development, funding and performance management of the science and research base across the UK, so that the UK continues to develop a world-class research base responsive to users and the economy, with sustainable and financially strong universities and public laboratories and a strong supply of scientists, engineers and technologists. DIUS funds the seven Research Councils, which allocate public funds to support research projects and teams.
The Government Office for Science, headed by the Government Chief Scientific Adviser (GCSA) Professor John Beddington, is located within DIUS. The GCSA is responsible to the Prime Minister and Cabinet for the quality of scientific advice to them on scientific and science policy issues.
The GCSA also:
- oversees the Government's Foresight programme and Horizon Scanning Centre;
- Chairs the Global Science and Innovation Forum which co-ordinates the UK's international science and innovation strategy and delivery;
- co-chairs the Prime Minister's Council for Science and Technology;
- heads the Science and Engineering profession in Government.
Please explore the below pages to find out more about Science.
What's New?
- Statement by the UK Government about nanotechnologies (PDF 1,341KB)
- GO-Science has published the Science Review of the Home Office and the Ministry of Justice (PDF file 3,392KB)
- GO-Science today published the update to the Code of Practice for Scientific Advisory Committees (PDF file 2,179KB), and the Government Response to the consultation on the Code update (PDF file 256KB)
- John Denham - Speech for the Launch of the Science Budget Allocations - 11 December 2007
- DIUS Science Budget Allocations Publication
- Written parliamentary statement on the allocation of the Science Budget
- Ian Pearson launches debate for a refreshed science and society vision
- Select for more information on 'What's New'
Science in Government
Science in Government aims to improve the quality and use of science and technology advice across Government.
UK's International Engagement
Science is global. We work with many organisations to develop and implement UK policy on international engagement in science and innovation.
Foresight
The Foresight programme aims to strengthen strategic policy making by embedding a futures approach across government.
Research Councils
There are seven Research Councils, established under Royal Charter. The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills has statutory control of the Councils.
BNSC
The British National Space Centre (BNSC) partnership is at the heart of UK efforts to explore and exploit space
Science Funding
The Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) is responsible for the allocation of the Science Budget primarily through the seven UK Research Councils.
Science Reviews
Programme of reviews of how government departments identify their science requirements and commission, manage, quality assure and use science and scientific advice.
Knowledge Transfer
Science and Society
"Science & Society" encompasses a wide ranging set of interconnected issues ranging from the regulation, governance and use of science by the Government to the public's support, interest and engagement in science.
