Chi Onwurah, the Labour Member of Parliament for Newcastle upon Tyne Central, has recently been elected as the chair of the UK Parliament's Science and Technology Committee. Her election represents a significant moment, particularly for the Labour Party, which was allocated the leadership of this influential committee. Onwurah's dedication to science and technology is deep-rooted and has been evident throughout her career.
Onwurah's fascination with science began at a young age. Growing up, she was always curious about how things worked and was particularly interested in engineering. This curiosity was nurtured through her education. She pursued Electrical Engineering at Imperial College London, a prestigious institution renowned for its emphasis on engineering and technology. Her academic journey did not end there; Onwurah later earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Bath, equipping her with a solid foundation to navigate the complex interplay between technology and policy.
Before making her mark in politics, Onwurah had an extensive career in various science and technology roles. Her professional journey includes positions at the UK Ministry of Defence and the National Engineering Laboratory. Additionally, she worked as a Chartered Engineer and was an active member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology. These roles provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the practical and policy aspects of science and technology.
Onwurah's election as the chair of the Science and Technology Committee is seen as a positive step for science advocacy. Her extensive background in the field ensures she is well-placed to understand and address the sector's challenges and opportunities.
One of the critical issues Onwurah is keen to address is the financial sustainability of universities. She has voiced concerns about the current funding models and the pressures they place on higher education institutions. Universities play a vital role in fostering innovation and conducting cutting-edge research, but they require stable and predictable funding to perform these functions effectively. Onwurah is a strong advocate for increased public investment in research and development, arguing that it is essential for driving economic growth and societal progress.
Onwurah also focuses on the future of the Research Excellence Framework (REF). The REF is a system used to assess the quality of research in UK higher education institutions, influencing funding allocations and reputations. Onwurah calls for a more inclusive and diverse approach to the REF, ensuring that it supports a broad range of research activities. She emphasizes the importance of collaborations between academia and industry, which can lead to more impactful and innovative research outcomes.
Onwurah’s vision for the future involves creating an environment where science and technology can thrive inclusively. She advocates for policies that ensure equitable access to research opportunities and education, particularly for underrepresented groups. According to Onwurah, a diverse scientific community is better equipped to tackle the complex challenges our society faces.
Another cornerstone of Onwurah's advocacy is her commitment to public engagement. She believes that science should not be confined to academic and professional circles but should be accessible to the wider public. By fostering greater public understanding and appreciation of science, Onwurah hopes to build a society that values and supports scientific endeavors.
As chair of the Science and Technology Committee, Onwurah is in a pivotal position to influence science policy in the UK. Her background and passion for the field suggest she will be a proactive and effective leader. As she navigates the complex landscape of university finances and the REF, Onwurah remains committed to advocating for a more inclusive, well-funded, and publicly engaged scientific community.
With Onwurah at the helm, the future of science and technology policy in the UK looks promising. Her dedication and expertise will be crucial in shaping a landscape where scientific research and innovation can flourish.
