Information

Many of our main research funders are increasing their requirements for public engagement, but what does this really mean when it comes to writing a research proposal or delivering a project? Join in this highly interactive and informative event to have the opportunity to speak directly with the research councils and trusts.

Using case studies speakers will cover what counts and, more importantly, what doesn’t count as public engagement. Find out which publics are a priority, what proportion of a research project could be dedicated to engaging the public and understand more about how public engagement is reviewed in relation to the rest of a research proposal.  Speakers will also highlight the support available from funders once you’ve secured your research funding as you progress through your project.

Who can attend?

This event is for all people who:

• are involved with writing research proposals to the research councils and trusts,
• who are thinking about submitting a bid or;
• have recently been successful. 

We are delighted to be working across the South West region and have extended this invitation to colleagues at University of Bath, University of Cardiff, University of Bristol and the University of the West of England, Bristol. This event is free for people from these institutions, but you will need to cover your own travel costs.

This event is free for University of Exeter staff and transport from Cornwall will be arranged. Please note that due to the interactive nature of the event we are unable to videoconference to Cornwall.

Registration

Places are limited and must be booked in advance. Email research-events@exeter.ac.uk to reserve a place specifying any dietary requirements and if transport will be required.  Contact Helen Featherstone for more information.

Timetable

12:30 Buffet Lunch 
     
13:15 Introduction to the afternoon    
           Dr Helen Featherstone, Public Engagement Manager

13:20 Welcome     
           Professor Nicholas Talbot, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) 

13.30 From the horse’s mouth: Research Council perspectives on PE
           Presentations followed by Q&A

14:15 Breakout sessions      
        
Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
Philip Pothen, Head of Communications 

Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
Melanie Knetsch, Deputy Head Communications 

Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
Poppy Leeder, Media & Public Engagement Manager 

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
Emma Longridge

Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Neville Hollingworth, Public Engagement Manager 

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
(EPSRC)
Ruth Williams, Senior Policy Manager for Public Engagement with Research 
      
Wellcome Trust (WT)    
Chloe Sheppard, Researchers' Engagement 

15:30 Market place with tea, coffee and cake  
           Delegates free to move around to chat with other RCs

16:00 Networking activity     

16:30 Wrap up and thanks     
           Dr Helen Featherstone, Public Engagement Manager 
       
16:45 END