ESRC research syntheses
As part of our Science in Society strategy, we are committed to supporting research into science in society and ensuring that the findings are disseminated widely to those involved in the delivery of activity and policy development.
A number of reviews have been commissioned, covering a variety of science in society topics. The aim of these reviews is to draw together what is already known from published research (and where accessible, current research) and highlight what further research questions remain.
You can download the completed syntheses below. We will add more as they become available.
Public attitudes to Global Uncertainties: a research synthesis exploring the trends and gaps in knowledge
This synthesis was commissioned for the cross council programme Global Uncertainties, and it looks at what is currently known about public attitudes to the research areas under the programme.
Widening participation from undergraduate to postgraduate research degrees
This synthesis, commissioned by the ESRC and the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement, highlights the trends and gaps in knowledge about what is known about widening participation in higher education.
Public attitudes to environmental change: a selective review of theory and practice
This synthesis commissioned by the ESRC and Research Councils UK for the cross council programe Living With Environmental Change, looks as what is currently know about public attitude to environmental change.
Improving the take up of science and technology in secondary school
This synthesis, commissioned by the ESRC and the Department for Children, Schools and Families looks at what is currently known about teaching practices, the types of initiatives which are available and what impact they are having.
PhD graduates' career choices and impact: a review of UK evidence
This synthesis, commissioned by the ESRC and Research Councils UK Research Careers and Diversity Unit reviews what is currently known about the career choices of students who have completed their PhDs.
Segmenting publics
This synthesis, commissioned by the ESRC and the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement, examines audience segmentation methods and tools in the area of public engagement.