BRIDGING THE LAB AND THE LEGISLATURE

Abstract

DAVID BERNSTEIN RAN THE RADIO station at Clark University in Worcester, Mass. But the undergraduate chemistry major spent more time interacting with the school's student government than spinning records. That was fine with the self-proclaimed National Public Radio junkie who is now using his scientific training as a fellow for the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP). He works with ranking member Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.). Scientists have expertise and perspective that is increasingly sought by policymakers for decisions on such issues as public health, drug development, homeland security, and the environment. The American Chemical Society sponsors two kinds of fellowships annually that provide chemical scientists with the opportunity to participate. This year, two congressional fellows are working on Capitol Hill, and one science policy fellow is working in the ACS Office of Legislative & Government Affairs, also in Washington, D.C. Midcareer fellows have used the fellows...