Science and innovation play an important role in encouraging prosperity and growth through the Science and Technology Network (STN).

The UK’s Science and Technology Network (STN) leads on developing science partnerships and deploying science diplomacy around the world. It was previously known as UK Science and Innovation Network (SIN).

The UK is a global power in science, technology, and innovation. International collaboration is essential to maintaining the UK’s scientific base, supporting the competitive advantage of our innovative businesses whilst addressing shared opportunities and threats.

The STN has approximately 130 staff in over 65 locations across the world building partnerships and collaborations on science, technology and innovation. STN staff work with local science and innovation organisations in support of UK policy abroad, to benefit both the UK and the host country.

What the Science and Technology Network does

The STN has 3 objectives:

  • projecting UK science, technology and innovation excellence and leadership globally
  • actively building and facilitating science, technology and innovation collaborations of value to the UK
  • providing insights and intelligence

Our thematic priorities are imbedded throughout the 3 objectives. The thematic focus is different for each country, reflecting differing UK priorities by region and country, and local context and opportunities:

  • opportunities and risks from critical and emerging technologies
  • climate and environment: addressing climate change and biodiversity loss is the number one international priority for the UK government
  • global health: focusing on health security, encouraging healthy societies, and supporting the life sciences sector

Science and Technology Network successes

UK Science and Technology Network impact stories show the impact of the work that STN is leading around the world, including these examples:

Where the Science and Technology Network is based

The Science and Technology Network is organised into 4 regions:

  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • India, Middle East and Africa
  • Americas

Europe

Asia Pacific

India, Middle East and Africa

Americas

How to contact the UK Science and Technology Network

To contact a STN staff member about a specific country, follow the link for that country. If you have a general query email stn.info@fcdo.gov.uk