I'm striking for the first time because government scientists are so poorly paid

Researchers who plan for natural disasters and climate change are stuck with the public sector pay freeze, while our colleagues in universities enjoy rises

This week, on 14 September, I walked out of my job for a half-day of strike action, alongside my colleagues at the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).

I've worked within the council and its precursors for 23 years and this is the first time we've ever balloted members about taking action on pay. It's not something that's generally a big motivator. NERC members - scientists and researchers - enjoy their work and are proud to contribute to the likes of the British Antarctic Survey, the Geological Survey, the National Oceanography Centre, the Sea Mammal Research Unit.