The Office of Government Relations (OGR) was originally established as the Center for Science, Technology and Congress to provide timely, objective information to Congress on science and technology issues, and to help the science and engineering community understand the impact of science policies to the research enterprise. Its primary product was a monthly newsletter, Science & Technology in Congress; today, OGR publishes a weekly newsletter, the AAAS Policy Alert. Over the years, the office has expanded its efforts to include advocating for the fundamental importance of scientific research and the use of scientific evidence in setting policies. The OGR team has also developed trainings and workshops for scientists and engineers to work effectively with legislators.
Our Advocacy
OGR advocates on behalf of AAAS and the scientific and engineering community. Visit this page to learn about our advocacy activities.
Our Events and Programs
OGR hosts events throughout the year including:
- Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop
- Golden Goose Award Ceremony
- Forum on Science & Technology Policy (featuring the William D. Carey Lecture)
- Science & Technology Policy Leadership Seminar
OGR is also home to new initiatives like the Local Science Engagement Network (LSEN), and we work closely with the AAAS R&D Budget and Policy Program.
Committee on Science, Engineering and Public Policy (COSEPP)
Appointed by AAAS's Board of Directors, COSEPP members review the Association’s public policy activities, alert AAAS to S&T policy issues that they see coming over the horizon, oversee the annual AAAS Forum on Science and Technology Policy, and sponsor other activities such as symposia and workshops at the AAAS Annual Meeting to help scientists and engineers communicate more effectively with policymakers.
Committee Members
Mary Maxon (Chair)
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Kate Stoll (Vice Chair)
MIT Washington Office
Michelle McMurry-Heath
Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO)
Kathie L. Olsen
KLO International, LLC
Tim Profeta
Duke University
Ann Reid
National Center for Science Education
Tobin Smith
Association of American Universities
Irving Wladawsky-Berger
MIT
Board Liaison
Bill Provine
DuPont Experimental Station
Follow OGR on Twitter for science policy updates and information.