Linda recently took part in an initiative spearheaded by the Royal Society, whereby MPs and scientists in their constituencies are developing a better understanding of each other’s roles by spending time with each other. 

The objective of the initiative is for scientists to learn how government policy for science and research is formulated, and for MPs to understand how research happens – from the first ideas through to funding of research, laboratory experimentation, clinical trials and final solutions. Linda’s ‘other half’ in this initiative was Professor Noel Morgan - Professor of Endocrine Pharmacology at the Peninsula Medical School.

Professor Morgan spent a week in Parliament shadowing Linda last November. While there he saw how policy and decisions relating to science are made, sat in on a number of science-related Select Committees and attended Royal Society briefings by civil servants and MPs with a science background. Professor Morgan commented: “I found my visit to Parliament particularly enlightening, and it gave me a better insight into how research policy is formulated and implemented. I was especially impressed by how well informed Members of both Houses of Parliament are about scientific issues and of their concern to continue to promote a strong science base in the UK.”

Friday (1^st February 08) saw the ‘return match’ with Linda Gilroy visiting the Peninsula Medical School in Plymouth, to see at first hand the level of medical research taking place there. Linda visited the laboratories, met with principal researchers and learned from research staff and students about their work and aspirations for the future.

Areas of study that Linda Gilroy reviewed included a range of research into diabetes and neuroscience.  Of her involvement in the initiative Linda said:- 

"I was delighted to be able to take part in the pairing scheme again this year. I took part previously and this led to some very strong links with the University and a much greater understanding about marine science and climate change. I now look forward to learning about the important area of diabetes research, and through this about the role of health science in the city and the growing reputation which the Peninsula Medical School is giving such a strong focus to .Politicians need to understand science and scientists if we are to make the right decisions for the future - and nowhere is this more important than in Plymouth where marine and health sciences are playing an increasingly strong role in our economy."