Engaging the next generation in science policy and advocacy training

Abstract

COVID-19 has caused a lot of misinformation with regards to the value and importance of science in dealing with the pandemic. Additionally, the pandemic-induced lockdown has adversely affected higher education. However, the post-pandemic recovery process is going to be a great opportunity to create reforms in higher education and increase engagement of policymakers and lay audiences on science-related issues. In order to bridge the gap between researchers and policymakers, the Journal of Science Policy and Governance (JSPG) in collaboration with UC Irvine's Graduate Professional Success in STEM (GPS-STEM) offered the virtual Science Policy & Advocacy for STEM Scientists Certificate Program. The program equips early career researchers (ECRs) with fundamental skills in science policy and advocacy, including effective communication for engaging policymakers on a multitude of issues. To impart some of this knowledge to ECR members at the conference who are interested in these careers, we plan to organize a short session describing outcomes of the program and ways in which ECRs can translate scientific knowledge into societal impact. Following the session, we will create a handout with science policy and advocacy resources for distribution to participants.