Visibility and perceptions of careers in science: Statement from the Science Council
In August 2026, following a meeting of the most senior representatives of the scientific community, the Science Council published a statement setting out priorities to increase visibility and perceptions of careers in science.
The statement arose as one of the outcomes of a roundtable between the Presidents of Science Council member bodies. It was attended by Julie Hill MBE, President of the IES.
Recommendations on perceptions of science careers
- Ensure multiple accessible routes into science, including apprenticeships and other technical qualifications to expand opportunity and complement academic pathways such as university and postdoctoral fellowships. All routes must be supported by financially viable pathways for people from all backgrounds. Diversity of people, backgrounds and thought leads to better science outcomes and solutions.
- Broaden perceptions of science careers by highlighting varied roles, pathways and definitions of success and emphasising the transferable value of scientific skills and the diverse ways in which careers in science can evolve over a working lifespan.
- Improve visibility of real career opportunities so individuals can clearly understand the outcomes and possibilities associated with studying science, and that new possibilities are emerging all the time.
- Strengthen interdisciplinary approaches within science to respond effectively to the complex challenges of a modern world.
- Embed work-readiness and interdisciplinary skills across science education to align with industry’s evolving needs.
- Create inclusive and supportive educational settings and workplaces that foster belonging, inclusivity, retention and progression across the science workforce.
The IES is already working to promote better perceptions of careers in environmental science, including through our recommendations to the UK Government and our vision for the future of environmental science.
Our education community, the Community for Education Disciplines in Higher Education (CEDHE), plays a pivotal role in the Higher and Further Education environmental science communities, advocating for member interests on the international stage.
Further information and related issues
To find out more about the current challenges for UK science, you can read the Science Council's statement on funding for science, which the IES also supported. You can also learn more by:
- Finding out more about the Community for Environmental Disciplines in Higher Education (CEDHE), a community of practice in environmental education
- Following our programme of webinars for Careers Week 2026 or learning how the IES is working to improve access into environmental science careers
- Taking a step towards developing your own policy skills through our training on ‘Understanding environmental policy’ and 'Influencing and Engaging with policy'
- Supporting effective delivery of policies like these by joining our Environmental Policy Implementation Community
If you want to support the work of the IES, you can become an affiliate, or if you’re a professional in the environmental sector working with science, consider joining the IES.
Header image credit: © Astrosystem | Adobe Stock
