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Work by the University of Huddersfield's Archaeogenetics Research Group has been at the forefront of developing mitochondrial DNA as a tool for reconstructing the dispersal history of mankind, from a new model of the expansion of modern humans out of Africa to re-evaluations of the settlement history of Europe, Asia and the Pacific. Pivotal in the emergence of commercial genetic ancestry testing, this work generates immense public interest and creates many opportunities for broad engagement. It has provided an expert basis for TV and radio programmes, featured widely in the mainstream press and helped the Human Genetics Commission formulate guidelines for the genetic ancestry testing industry.
Through the publication of three books based on his original research, written for a non-specialist audience, and through an extensive schedule of public engagement work, Dr Nick Lane (UCL Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment) has enhanced public awareness of relatively little known areas of science (evolutionary biochemistry and cell biology), stimulating discussion and debate in a wide range of media. His books have been translated into 20 languages and have sold around 100,000 copies since 2008. They have had significant societal impacts, such as inspiring young people to study biological sciences, raising public awareness of research being undertaken in this field and stimulating debate and interest in the subject area.
Tim Lewens' research into risk, trust and bioethics can be shown to have informed and influenced policy debate. This work has shaped reports of the Business Innovation and Skills working group on Science and Trust, and also reports from the Nuffield Council on Bioethics. Lewens' key contributions to the latter's Human Bodies Report have resulted in invitations to give evidence to the Welsh National Assembly, thus helping to shape the Assembly's drafting of its new bill on human transplantation. His work on the Council's report on Mitochondrial Disorders has been echoed in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority's (HFEA's) recent advice to UK Ministers, which aims to inform forthcoming debate to alter existing legislation on experimental mitochondrial therapies. Lewens' research has also led to his being asked to take on consulting roles to industry, most recently with AstraZeneca.
Professor Andy Miah's research on the ethics of human enhancement has transformed the working lives of three principal professional communities: curators of UK flagship festivals and exhibitions (Abandon Normal Devices festival, the Wellcome Trust, Edinburgh International Science Festival); journalists (coverage on doping); and politicians and civil servants working on technology policy (European Parliament, World Anti-Doping Agency). His pioneering research has led to the creation of new artistic work, shaped policy directions, contributed to public engagement with bioethics, and advanced debate on the ethics of digital and biological technology.
Increasing understanding of the natural world is at the heart of Stewart's walking performance, Jack Scout. The key impacts of this piece have been through their engagement with and promotion of rural organisations and businesses, such as the RSPB, local schools, and the local authority. The production also encouraged participants to engage with the landscape, history, storytelling and nature, and created new audiences for site-specific rural performance. The work has supported professional development of artist and practitioner participants, who have been inspired to develop their own practice through participation as both collective and individual experience.
We have established a primate research centre (The Macaque Study Centre) in a zoo environment (Marwell Zoo) for research into primate social cognition. Visitors can watch the science taking place, which 1) significantly increases their perception of the zoo as a place of learning, 2) increases their knowledge about the specific research being conducted, and 3) improves children's attitudes to science as an exciting subject. Marwell Zoo integrate the research into their educational workshops, and similar facilities are now being established in other zoos in light of the demonstrable scientific, public engagement/involvement and animal welfare benefits.