Building a Stronger Science & Technology Profession
Science and technology are playing an increasingly important role in modern policing.
From digital investigations and data analytics to forensics, behavioural science, research and emerging technologies, these capabilities help policing respond to increasingly complex challenges while meeting the evolving needs and expectations of the public.
As the importance of these disciplines continues to grow, so does the need to support the people working within them.
Research commissioned by the Office of the Police Chief Scientific Adviser (OPCSA) in 2024 highlighted a clear need for greater connection, learning and professional development across the science and technology profession. While expertise and good practice exist throughout policing, many practitioners reported that it can be difficult to identify relevant learning opportunities, connect with peers, or access knowledge from across the wider policing landscape.
The findings also showed that many science and technology professionals are applying specialist skills in their day-to-day roles while seeking more opportunities to develop their expertise, broaden their networks and learn from others working in related fields.
In response, OPCSA has been working with colleagues across policing to develop the Police Science & Technology Academy. The Academy is being designed as a national professional hub, bringing together people, knowledge, learning opportunities and expertise from across the science and technology community.
The Academy has been shaped through collaboration with practitioners, leaders and partners from across policing, supported by a dedicated User Group that has helped inform its development and priorities.
Later this year, an initial pilot version of the Academy will be introduced as a proof of concept. This will allow policing to explore how the Academy can best support the profession, gather user feedback and identify opportunities for future enhancement.
The pilot represents the first step towards a wider ambition to strengthen science and technology capability across policing. Over time, the Academy aims to support greater collaboration, increase visibility of learning and development opportunities, showcase innovation and research, share good practice, and strengthen connections between policing, academia and industry.
As the Academy continues to develop, the experiences, ideas and feedback of those working across the profession will play an important role in shaping its future direction.