As Scotland’s National Academy, we use the combined knowledge of our 1,800-strong Fellowship to tackle the most pressing issues facing society, provide independent expert advice to policymakers and inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers.
Our 2023–2028 strategy sets out the framework for delivering the RSE’s purpose. It focuses on key societal challenges to be addressed through the contributions of Fellows and Young Academy of Scotland (YAS) members. The RSE’s diverse expertise and membership enables us to bring multidisciplinary perspectives to the critical issues of significance for Scotland, the UK, and internationally.
Mission
The advancement of learning and useful knowledge for public good.
Attributes and strengths of the RSE
The RSE’s natural advantages include:
The broad Fellowship
Convening power
Research and practice
Increasing diversity
Societal challenges
The RSE identifies three broad challenges facing Scotland and the world. The challenges are addressed through an interdisciplinary approach encompassing the natural sciences; the economic and social sciences; the humanities; the creative arts, and the world of practice.
Climate change and environmental sustainability
Economic prosperity
Social cohesion
Thematic programmes
There are five main programme areas. They are not distinct from each other, but are interconnected
Economy and enterprise
Education
International
Research
Policy advice