Scientists have conducted immense research over the decades, unraveling the mysteries of the natural world and pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. From groundbreaking discoveries in climate science to innovative solutions for water scarcity and disaster risk reduction, the scientific community has amassed a wealth of information that could transform societies. Yet, despite this vast repository of knowledge, a glaring disconnect persists between scientific research and its application in policymaking. Research-to-policy translation remains a central focus in global discussions, as it holds the key to tackling humanity’s most urgent challenges.
In some cases, too much knowledge is available to the scientific community, but too little of it reaches the desks of those who shape the policies that govern our lives. Much of this research is fuelled by individual passions and scientific curiosity, often disconnected from the pressing challenges faced by societies.
As Dr. Florence Tanui aptly put it;
“In modern days, scientific research should no longer be a product of personal inspiration but one must ask how the curiosity is linked to the much needed solutions.”
The question, then, is not whether we have enough science, but why this science fails to inform the decisions that matter. The answer lies in understanding the barriers that separate researchers from policymakers—and in reimagining how we bridge this gap.
The Great Divide: Why Research Fails to Influence Policy
Scientific research holds the power to transform societies. Yet, glaring gaps in policy persist—often uninformed by science. Policymakers, by nature, are rarely scientists. Conversely, scientists are not politicians. This divide means that scientific discoveries, no matter how revolutionary, often fail to shape real-world decisions.
In many regions, particularly in developing countries, political interests overshadow scientific evidence in decision-making. Short-term gains, electoral concerns, and economic influences frequently take precedence over long-term, research-backed policies. However, the excuse of lacking technical expertise is outdated. The burden of bridging this gap lies with modern scientists. Research-to-policy translation must not just exist—it must demand impact.
But let’s be clear: the lack of technical expertise is no longer an excuse. The failure of current scientists to make their work impactful is a burden to the modern world. If we are to address global challenges like climate change, water scarcity, and natural disasters, we must confront the barriers that hinder the flow of scientific knowledge into policy.
Barriers to Research-Driven Policy
Misaligned Priorities and Timelines
Policymakers often need quick solutions, while scientific research takes years to complete. By the time a study is published, the policy priorities may have already changed, making the research less relevant. To be effective, scientists must find ways to share insights more quickly and align their research with pressing policy needs.
The Language Barrier – Scientific Jargon
Scientific papers are often unreadable to non-specialists. Jargon-filled language alienates policymakers who need concise, actionable information. If research findings cannot be easily understood, they will not be used. Research-to-policy translation requires clear, engaging communication that bridges this gap.
Weak Science-Policy Networks
Scientists and policymakers rarely engage in meaningful discussions. Many policymakers do not have direct access to experts who can explain scientific findings in practical terms. Creating opportunities for regular meetings, joint projects, and advisory panels can help ensure that science plays a bigger role in shaping policies.
Poor Cross-Sectoral Collaboration
Another critical challenge is the lack of synergy in operations and budgeting among government agencies. Ministries and departments often function in isolation, with little coordination between sectors that should work together. For instance, a water management body may operate independently of climate agencies, while environmental and public health departments rarely collaborate with agricultural policymakers.
This fragmented approach not only leads to inefficiencies but also weakens the integration of scientific knowledge into decision-making. Without cross-sectoral coordination, policies risk being narrow in scope, missing the interconnected nature of environmental, health, and economic challenges.
Fragmented Scientific Disciplines
In addition to the above, scientists from different fields rarely engage in joint conferences or discussions. When research remains compartmentalized, holistic solutions to policy challenges become difficult to develop. Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration strengthens research-to-policy translation.
Prioritization of Political Interests Over Evidence
Many policy decisions are based on political agendas, economic interests, or public opinion rather than scientific research. If research findings contradict government priorities or industry interests, they are often ignored. To make science more influential, researchers must engage with policymakers early and demonstrate how their work aligns with national goals and public benefits.
Lack of Early Exposure to Policy for Young Scientists
Academic curricula often ignore policy dynamics, focusing on technical skills while sidelining how science impacts governance. From early education, students see policy as irrelevant to science, widening the research-policy gap. Young researchers, unprepared to engage with decision-makers, struggle to translate findings into action. Bridging this divide demands policy training, mentorship, and early exposure to policymaking in scientific education.
Bridging the Gap—Strategies for Effective Science Communication
Making Science Useful: Practical Pathways for Policy Influence
Science must evolve beyond knowledge generation—it must actively shape solutions. Here’s how scientists can transform research into actionable policy:
Co-Designing Research with Policymakers
Rather than presenting completed research as a finished product, scientists should involve policymakers from the outset. Co-designing studies ensures that findings align with policy needs, increasing their likelihood of adoption.
Engaging Policymakers Throughout the Process
Policymakers are not looking for ready-made reports. They need involvement, dialogue, and iteration. Scientists should present findings in briefings, interactive workshops, and informal discussions to secure a buy-in before publishing final recommendations.
Making Science About Change and Action
Research should be solution-driven. Findings should not merely describe a problem but should propose measurable, implementable actions. Research impact must be quantifiable and adaptable to policy frameworks.
Transforming Scientific Language for Decision-Makers
Scientific language must change. Numbers and statistics must be translated into real-world implications. Visual tools such as infographics, policy dashboards, and scenario modelling can make complex data more accessible and persuasive.
Creating Continuous Dialogue Between Scientists and Policymakers
Annual summits, joint working groups, and advisory councils that include both scientists and policymakers can create the regular engagement necessary to integrate science into decision-making.
Leveraging Media to Drive Public Support
Public engagement drives policy action. When scientific findings gain media traction, policymakers are more likely to respond. Scientists should actively contribute to public discussions, op-eds, and social media to amplify their research.
Final Thoughts
Bridging the gap between research and policy demands that scientists rethink their roles. Clear communication, accessibility, and continuous engagement must become central to scientific practice. Research-to-policy translation must ensure that scientific findings are actionable, well-timed, and relevant to decision-making.
Collaboration between researchers, decision-makers, and the public is essential for science-driven governance and sustainable solutions. The challenges of today must not dominate the future as failures of our generation. As Dr. Florence Tanui puts it;
“Let not the challenges of today dominate the future as failures by our generation.”
The time to act is now. We have to reimagine how to communicate, collaborate, and translate science into action, we can ensure that scientific research becomes a cornerstone of policymaking—and a beacon of hope for a better, more sustainable world.
English