Participating scientists are paired with either an MP or civil servant and the Royal Society supports them by arranging a 'Week in Westminster' and reciprocal visits.

The scheme aims to help MPs and civil servants establish longstanding links with practising research scientists and to help research scientists understand political decision making and its associated pressures.

Since 2001 over 150 scientists have been paired with MPs and civil servants.

Applications for the next scheme will open in April 2012.