Hear from Louise
Professor Louise Reardon takes us through a day in her life as Parliament’s first Thematic Research Lead for Transport.
About Thematic Research Leads
Thematic Research Leads are researchers embedded three days a week in Parliament, whilst retaining their substantive academic post for the remaining time. They are based in policy-relevant teams in Parliament and operate in a network facilitated by POST’s Knowledge Exchange Unit.
The purpose of the Thematic Research Lead is to facilitate and enhance the use of research evidence and expertise in Parliament (in both the House of Commons and House of Lords) through effective knowledge exchange, collaboration and processes.
Find out more about this unique and varied role from the people who’ve done it – you can read their stories below.
Stories from the 2024-26 cohort
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Hear from David
From the wards to Westminster: David shares how his clinical, academic and parliamentary roles intersect to support better health policy.
New vacancies live
We’re looking to appoint seven new Thematic Research Leads to be embedded part-time in Parliament from 2027-29.
Stories from the 2023-24 cohort
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Professor Tamsin Edwards
"Being a Thematic Research Lead has been transformative"
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Professor Kristen Harkness
"I have found it deeply meaningful to step into this role and try to make a difference"
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Professor Rick Whitaker
"Working with staff across the different legislatures in the UK has been fascinating for me"