FST BLOG

Questions from the floor

• 19 August 2026
• General
• Charlotte Raynsford

At every FST discussion event, we open the floor to questions. Sometimes there’s a challenge, sometimes there’s a sector-related query. Whatever the intervention, our audience participation is always insightful.

The Foundation for Science and Technology is known for its monthly discussions which offer insight into how some of the top minds are working on topical science, technology and policy issues. Remaining neutral, we bring sectors together to listen to some of the world’s leading experts - from professors to ministers. Together, and often with very different perspectives, our panel dive into a vast array of topics, from nuclear fusion to climate mitigation to the regulation of AI for humanity. These conversations are cited as a trusted source of nuance on some of the biggest issues of the day.

We do not doubt that a lot can be learnt from our panellists. But what can we learn from our audience?

There is a value in handing the microphone back to the audience for their take. From the head of the British Science Association to a civil servant working within the walls of Westminster, an MP to a member of the public; every month we hear a spectrum of interesting interventions.

Our Chair, Lord David Willetts, is expert at batching questions to allow the panel to answer as much as they can. Everyone has a chance to be heard. We have learnt that the audience Q&A section often reflects what is happening within the wider S&T ecosystem or political landscape. Also that the same themes come up, regardless of the event topic. Some audience questions have even found their way to becoming the basis of future FST discussions. Here are a few examples of the common themes we hear:

• The skills gap- How can we ensure that interest in science does not drop during adolescence? Is there a better way to teach STEM at secondary school? What about the representation issue? What can the R&D sector do to change this and ensure a more sustained and diverse pipeline of talent?
• Scaling up research initiatives and S&T startups in the UK – We have some of the brightest minds. Why do so many of them leave to work elsewhere and what can we do better to retain talent?
• Communicating research and evidence to the public – How can we be better at this in the digital era?
• Impacts of the wider geopolitical landscape – It is coming up everywhere right now.

Of course, none of these issues exist in a vacuum of FST event discussions; they are being talked about between teams across the S&T ecosystem - from universities to boards, to pub tables. But the buzz in the room during our Q&A section helps to bring our audience’s ideas to the attention of our speakers, and conversations are carried on long after the post-event drinks are served. Here are a selection of comments we received at some of our most recent events:

“The Q&A covered a range of issues in a short time and was handled really well.” – Science Diplomacy, July 2026

“Absolutely fantastic to have another two former science ministers turn up in the audience. I also greatly valued (a BBC Journalist) carefully reminding us that what we think are stories aren't always what he thinks are stories.” – Space Policy, April 2026

“Some very pertinent questions well managed and from a broad range of stakeholders.” – Delivering the life sciences Sector Plan, October 2025

“Diverse range of questions and comments, leading to an interactive exchange with the panel.”- Science Diplomacy, July 2026

Bringing top minds together from across the science policy landscape is our niche, and as part of our mission, we will always ask the audience for their take. Being able to get into a room with an expert talking about a poignant topic is just one half of the conversation. Allowing for the listener to be heard, is the other.

Find out what Foundation discussion events are coming up, here.

---