Political Institute of Action Research

Welcome to the Political Institute of Action Research (PIAR)!

We are a Student-run Think Tank  focused on Research, Charity and Careers,  aiming to facilitate change through objective, factual action research and discourse.  Moreover, we are a proud member of the Scotland's Future Series, a programme sponsored by the University to take a leading role in  shaping  the Future of Scotland.

Pillar 1 - Research:

• Get the chance to publish your work  & advocate for change, while developing your professional skillset!
• Join Group or Create your Own:
  • Join Group:
    • Each term we take a survey of what issues are the most pressing to the local community and choose the two most named ones as our focus groups for the term. 
    • You can apply to become part of these research teams, as soon as the topics have been decided on. Look out for more info on this on our Social Media!
    • Group structure:  5 researchers and 1 head researcher
    • Time commitment:  As part of these groups you will take part in a 5-week programme from start to finish, and will attend a weekly session  (including a Workshop run by The Political Institute +  time to facilitate research and writing)
  • Create your Own:
    • If your desired topic has not been chosen, you can contact The Political Institute all year around to create your own group, and be able to publish your work with our support from Editor-in-Chief.

Pillar 2 - Charity:

• We offer the opportunity to support local charities through volunteering and fundraising, and we will publish more information on availability at the beginning of the semester.

Pillar 3 - Careers:

• As a society, we are trying to bridge the gap between academia and the private and public  sector, especially as students are planning their future careers. Thus, we aim to provide insights into the world of think tanks. Throughout the year, we will be hosting a range of guest speakers, conduct workshops and organize networking events for students interested in such a career. 

Get Involved:

Linktree:  https://linktr.ee/thepoliticalinstitute

Website:  https://politicalinstitute.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn; Instagram; Facebook

*If you are part of another student organisation and would like to collaborate, please reach out to us via email or Instagram!!