A panel debate at the Royal Society in London last month (6 June) brought together scientists, policymakers, NGOs and the media to discuss the role of science, technology and innovation in the post-2015 development agenda.

Participants thrashed out ideas for how scientists can make their voices heard in dialogue around the new Sustainable Development Goals, to ensure the goals reflect science's critical role in driving development. The report published in May by the High Level Panel on the Post-2015 Development Agenda - and its implications for science - was a key topic for debate.

During the event, SciDev.Net spoke to Professor Peter Piot, director of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, about his views on the importance of integrating science and technology into post-2015 development, and the urgent challenges facing the global community as it draws up the next set of development goals.