Campus Talks by Times Higher Education Campus talks: The secrets of effective policy engagement - from two academics who have worked in government
May 14, 2025
David Garcia, a public policy expert and former gubernatorial candidate from Arizona, teams up with Michael Sanders, Professor of Public Policy at King’s College London and former Chief Scientist in government. They discuss the vital link between academic research and government, sharing strategies for academics to engage effectively with policymakers. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, utilizing unexpected alliances, and simplifying complex ideas for better policy impact. Their insights underscore the need for proactive engagement and collaboration in shaping public discourse.
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Motivation Behind Policy Impact
- Academics often seek policy impact to change communities or see tangible results from their work.
- Both early-career and senior researchers find motivation in making a real-world difference.
Broaden Engagement and Allies
- Be open to helping policymakers beyond your immediate research topic to build trust.
- Enlist unexpected allies outside your network to amplify your work's influence.
Focus on Future Predictions
- Don’t overwhelm policymakers with history; focus on what will happen next.
- Making informed predictions is the most valuable contribution you can offer.