Tia Fletcher

PIPS Host Organisation: Sense about Science

PIPS Placement Project Title: Promoting public interest in sound science and evidence

Sense about Science is an independent charity that promotes the public interest in sound science and evidence. Throughout her placement Tia was able to work across multiple projects at Sense About Science. She worked communicating with MPs to help organise Evidence Week 2025, an event which takes place in parliament and brings together scientists and policymakers to discuss research on key policy issues. Through Evidence Week Tia was also lucky enough to meet her local MPs staff and get a handwritten letter from him. She also worked on the Voice of Young Science programme where she scoped and recruited panellists for an EU science communications workshop, and developed her graphic design skills creating social media content to advertise the workshop. Tia was also able to attend the John Maddox Prize reception, an award which recognises individuals who stand up for science and evidence, advancing public discussion around difficult topics despite challenges or hostility. This placement developed her skills in various forms of communication, networking and event planning. It also gave her a taste of life working in London out of the laboratory. Overall it was a very unique and valuable experience.

Sense about Science rated Tia’s contributions throughout her placement as “Excellent!”