Researchers in Society (RISE) is an ambitious programme of events which sets out to foster improved communication and mutual respect between researchers and the public. RISE is funded by the European Commission and is part of the 'Researchers in Europe 2005' initiative.

Activity 1: Pre-reading task

How healthy is scientific research is in Europe at the moment?
Do you think the following statements are true or false?

1. Europe needs more than half a million new science researchers in the next five years.
2. The number of science students who fail to finish their university courses is increasing.
3. People in Europe feel more and more cut off from the world of science.

Now find the answers at:

http://www.britishcouncil.org/rise

Are you surprised by any of the answers? RISE is a new initiative which is trying to break down the barriers between the scientific community and the general public across Europe.

Activity 2: Reading

Look at some questions and then go to the RISE events page to find the answers.

Hint: use the 'Edit/Find' function in the toolbar at the top of your browser to help you find the answers.

Activity 3: Follow-up task

Which of these events would interest you?

Do you think scientists and scientific ideas should be more accessible to the general public in your country?

Send us an email and tell us what you think.