Youth Advisory Panel
The Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) is an exciting opportunity for young people aged 16-18 from across Edinburgh and West Lothian to help shape conversations about research, public engagement and emerging technologies.
As technology continues to influence how we live, learn and connect, it is important that young people's voices are part of discussions about its development, use and impact. Through a series of interactive workshops running from September 2026 to January 2027, Youth Advisory Panel members will explore emerging technologies, discover cutting-edge research and share their ideas, experiences and perspectives on issues that matter to them.
Panel members will work alongside researchers, public engagement professionals and creative practitioners to explore how young people can play a greater role in shaping research and engagement activities. Participants will have opportunities to connect with their peers, contribute to meaningful discussions about the future and help influence how organisations engage with young people on important societal issues.
The programme will include interactive workshops, visits to innovative research environments such as the National Robotarium, and opportunities to meet researchers from a range of disciplines. Along the way, participants will build confidence in sharing their views, discussing science and technology, and contributing to conversations that can help shape the future.
About the programme
The Youth Advisory Panel has been established to ensure that young people's perspectives are represented within Heriot-Watt University's research and public engagement activities. Insights gathered throughout the programme will help inform future approaches to youth participation and support the development of more inclusive, meaningful and impactful engagement around emerging technologies.
The programme is delivered in partnership with Young Scot, Scotland's national youth information and citizenship charity, artist-in-residence Elspeth Maxwell, Heriot-Watt researchers and community partners.
Find out more
For further information, please contact:
hwengageyouth@hw.ac.uk
Interested in joining the Youth Advisory Panel? We'd love to hear from you. Applications are now open.
