University-Based Researchers as Knowledge Brokers for Climate Policies and Action

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Policy Studies
• Sociology of Science

Background:

• Effective climate crisis response necessitates robust science-policy linkages.
• The research-policy interface faces persistent challenges, amplified by climate science's multidisciplinary nature and political complexities.
• Understanding university researchers' experiences in policy brokering is vital for improving climate action.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the diverse views and experiences of university researchers engaging with climate policy.
• To identify challenges and opportunities in the science-policy interface for climate change mitigation and adaptation.
• To inform strategies for enhancing the impact of climate research on policy.

Main Methods:

• An empirical study involving forty researchers from universities in Bangladesh, Germany, Uganda, and the UK.
• Qualitative data collection capturing researchers' attitudes, engagement methods, and perceived needs.
• Analysis of experiences in the 'brokering space' between research and policy.

Main Results:

• A wide spectrum of researcher attitudes towards policy engagement was observed.
• Diverse methods of engagement were employed, with a preference for collaboration with government and civil society.
• Researchers perceived a need for increased university support and stronger links with the private sector and local communities.

Conclusions:

• Rethinking engagement conditions is necessary to foster knowledge exchange for societal transformation.
• Enhancing interdisciplinary research, private sector connections, and community links is recommended.
• Strengthening the position of Global South researchers is essential for equitable North-South knowledge exchange and capacity development.