Oya Isilay Canik
PIPS Host Organisation: The Royal Society
PIPS Project Title: UKRI Policy Internship Scheme – Science Policy Placement
Driven by a deep curiosity about how life works and a passion for using science to shape a better future, Oya pursued a science policy placement at the Royal Society—the world’s oldest scientific academy in continuous existence. The experience of walking the same halls once frequented by generations of pioneering scientists was both inspiring and humbling.
A major highlight of the placement was contributing to the new edition of the Bodmer Report, originally published in 1985 as The Public Understanding of Science. Oya played a key role in the Policy chapter, researching STEMM representation in the UK Parliament, developing case studies and chapter recommendations, summarising discussions with Chief Scientists and other experts, and preparing interview questions for Chief Scientific Advisers (CSAs).
Another standout achievement was organising the UK Government Chief Scientific Adviser (GCSA) Dinner on Climate Adaptation. Oya developed contextual materials to support policy briefings, drafted speaking notes for chairs and speakers, and managed operational logistics such as dinner cards, table plans, and presentation slides.
Throughout the placement, Oya worked closely with the Science Policy Public Affairs team and collaborated with colleagues across the Royal Society. This experience provided valuable insights into policy language, the role of policy advisers, and the collaborative nature of science-policy work. Most importantly, it offered a firsthand look at the Royal Society’s commitment to promoting excellence in science for the benefit of humanity.
The placement significantly strengthened Oya’s skills in evidence gathering, science communication, stakeholder engagement, and policy advising. It was a transformative opportunity to witness how scientific research can directly inform and shape public policy.
Oya said after her placement, “It helped me develop and apply transferable skills in a real-world setting, particularly in the area of science policy. I had the chance to use my analytical and research skills on a different topic, which allowed me to test my interests and gain clarity about future career options.”
The Royal Society praised Oya’s contribution, describing her as a fantastic addition to the team. Her enthusiasm and tenacity were evident from the outset, as she quickly took the lead in organising the GCSA Dinner on Climate Adaptation. Her proactive approach and can-do attitude were highly valued. Oya also played a central role in the development of the Bodmer Report chapter on Science and Policymaking, demonstrating strong project management skills and delivering excellent statistical analysis on the representation of Parliamentarians with a STEMM background.
