The survey was conducted jointly by the two unions, which represent scientists, researchers and academic and related staff working across the public and higher education sectors.

The people surveyed are more likely to vote than other parts of the electorate and the survey sets out key challenges facing the next government.

Findings include:

• how many respondents have been asked to tailor their research conclusions by a commercial backer
• which work-related issues are affecting voting intentions
• issues of leadership
• the corrosive effects of current funding provision and
• the issues threatening the future provision of science and research in the public sector and higher education.

The aim of the survey was to find out what motivates members in their professional life, how they view the prospects in their sector, their aspirations for the new parliamentary term, and the contribution that their work will make to its success. The unions argue that these are not issues for a single government department but are of key relevance to political, economic and social decisions right across government.

The unions' findings were announced at a press conference in London on 22 March. Speakers included:

• Dr Ian Gibson MP, Chair of the Commons’ Science and Technology Select Committee
• Sue Ferns, Prospect Head of Research and Specialist Services
• Jonathan Whitehead, AUT Head of Parliamentary and Public Affairs.

Copies of 'Professional Voices' can be downloaded from our site in PDF format.

Notes:

The survey was run online during the month of February and attracted 358 responses. 58% of respondents are male and 38% female.

Prospect represents 104,000 members across both the public and private sectors while AUT’s membership stands at 48,000.