RSE Young Academy of Scotland

Established by the RSE in 2011, the Young Academy of Scotland brings together entrepreneurs, academics, business leaders, teachers and other professionals to work collaboratively for the benefit of society.

By sharing members’ knowledge and practical expertise, YAS investigates pressing social issues, informs public debate, amplifies marginalised voices, and drives transformational change. They do this through a wide range of interdisciplinary projects, led by members. YAS members also participate in many RSE projects, initiatives and committees, working alongside RSE Fellows in their mission of “knowledge made useful.”

The greatest strength of YAS is the diversity of its membership: ranging in age from mid-twenties to early-forties, YAS members come from a wide range of backgrounds and represent communities from all over Scotland. With access to resources and expertise in many different sectors, from animation to brain surgery, YAS is uniquely positioned to research and tackle complex problems, both short- and long-term.

YAS is part of a growing global network of Young Academies and regularly engages worldwide with sister young academies to share knowledge, support one another, and work on international projects.

YAS member with Mark Beaumont FRSE | Young Academy of Scotland spring plenary 2023 | Credit: St Andrew’s University

  • Environment

    Enabling people in Scotland to thrive sustainably

    We strive to facilitate an inclusive and equitable transition towards a sustainable society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive within a healthy environment. This includes promoting a low-carbon economy, safeguarding ecosystems and biodiversity, and ensuring decent living standards for all.

  • Equity

    Enabling a more equitable, diverse, and just Scottish society

    We strive to amplify and elevate the voices of communities and individuals who face barriers to effective participation in decision-making forums. We listen attentively, gather information, distil insights, conduct research, and effectively communicate our findings with the aim of reducing health and social inequalities and promoting wellbeing in Scotland.

  • Exchange

    Enabling a respectful and inclusive societal exchange.

    Be strive to facilitate open and inclusive exchange of ideas and perspectives among individuals and diverse groups to encourage dialogue, foster understanding, and support informed decisionmaking. We aim to promote respectful, balanced discourse throughout Scotland and internationally.

Learn about their vision, mission, and values

Joint RSE/YAS projects

  • At Risk Academic Refugees

    In 2016, the RSE Young Academy of Scotland (YAS) launched its At-Risk Academic Refugees (ARAR) initiative to recognise talented young professionals from Scotland’s refugee…

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  • Tertiary Education Futures

    The Tertiary Education Futures project was a ‘blue-skies’ thought experiment to stimulate continued creative thinking about how post-school education might evolve over…

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