What is a citizen scientist and how to become one
In 2023 the Institute for Global Prosperity launched the UCL Citizen Science Academy in collaboration with the UCL Office for Open Science. The Academy trains members of the public —referred to as citizen social scientists—to conduct research within their own communities, providing insights and delivering new solutions.
Through inclusive, practice-based education, participants gain skills in research design, ethics, and data collection, with the goal of informing local policy and driving social change.
The flexible Certificate programme includes six competency domains and is designed to support diverse future projects. Research findings are shared through various formats to promote community-led action and influence decision-making.
“I believe the matters concerning the people on the ground should be influenced and informed by those same people. We know our areas best, we know our lives best, and we can inform and impact change better than anyone who just looks at it from a solely business perspective.
Lorraine, citizen scientist in east London
The journey of a citizen social scientist
People that don’t usually like to talk to the council, they talk to me. But if a researcher comes they would refuse. They don’t feel listened to or [that] their voice will be heard.”
Citizen scientist in Camden