A new research centre that will strengthen relationships between policymakers and Queen's academics to identify best practice and innovation in policy development has today been launched. 

To a packed room of key political figures, policymakers, academics and business leaders, Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said: 

“As Queen’s marks its 180th year, as a civic university we are reaffirming our commitment to public service by creating a platform that deepens our engagement with policymakers, ensuring our research translates into tangible societal benefits. Our University is globally ranked 117th for research quality, and our world-class expertise places us in a unique position to address some of the most pressing policy challenges facing society today. 

“We are launching the Centre for Public Policy and Administration at a time when governments around the world are increasingly recognising the essential role that universities play in solving complex policy issues. The role of our new centre will be to strengthen relationships between academia and policymakers, ensuring that public research is translated into actionable insights that benefit society at large — whether that be locally here in Northern Ireland or on the global stage.” 

This was followed by Dr Jayne Brady, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, who said: 

“The establishment of the new Centre for Public Policy and Administration is an exciting development with real potential to bring about an important step change for policy-making here in Northern Ireland. 

“The centre’s establishment will open new opportunities to develop stronger links between policy makers and academics. I wish the centre every success and I look forward to the collaborations in which many of us will be involved in over the coming years.” 

The Centre for Public Policy and Administration will provide a robust and independent platform for engagement and collaboration between academics and policy practitioners locally, nationally and internationally. It will translate research into practice and bring together diverse sources of evidence for improved policy-making.   

Founded on four distinct but interconnected pillars – education, scholarship, translation and exchange – the centre bridges academia, public administration (including local government) and politics, by fostering engagement and collaboration while respecting the distinct needs and expectations of each sector. 

The new centre’s approach will ensure policymakers are aware of the potential for academic expertise to address their significant policy challenges, and know how to access the most appropriate expertise. From an academic perspective, it will implement a more structured approach to help mobilise knowledge and expertise. 

Further information on the Centre for Public Policy and Administration, visit: https://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/cppa/  

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