3 December 2004

MP learns about Immunology

Dundee West MP Ernie Ross has spent the morning in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee to learn about the groundbreaking research being carried out in the field of immunology.

Mr Ross was visiting postdoctoral researcher, Dr Sharon Matthew from the Division of Cell Biology and Immunology, who shadowed Mr Ross for a day at the House of Commons as part of a week for scientists in parliament organised by the Royal Society. The aim of the week was to provide Sharon with a 'behind the scenes' insight into how science policy is formed as well as understanding the working life of an MP.

Sharon explained to Mr Ross this morning why the basic study of biology at a fundamental level is important in allowing scientists to understand of how to fight infection, viruses and bacteria. From this information it is hoped that drugs can be developed against many diseases, including, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV and even the common cold.

During Sharon's week in Westminster she was allowed to sit in on Select Committee Meetings attended by civil servants and discovered how they go about obtaining scientific knowledge from the scientific community which is used to inform policy.

Sharon also visited the Department of Trade and Industry to see how they deal with scientific policy and funding.

Sharon said. "My week at the House of Commons gave me a tremendous insight into the workings of the Government that few people get to hear about. My day with Mr Ross was very interesting and I'm delighted to host a reciprocal visit to our laboratory to hear about our research into immunology."

Notes to Editor:

1. The Royal Society's MP-scientist pairing scheme aims to build bridges between parliamentarians and some of the best scientists in the UK. It is an opportunity for MPs to become better informed about science issues and for scientists to understand how they can influence science policy. The scheme was launched in 2001 and 68 pairs of scientists and MPs have taken part.

2. The Royal Society is an independent academy promoting the natural and applied sciences. Founded in 1660, the Society has three roles, as the UK academy of science, as a learned society, and as a funding agency. It responds toindividual demand with selection by merit, not by field. For more information go to: www.royalsoc.ac.uk

By Jenny Marra, Head of Press 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, j.m.marra@dundee.ac.uk