The AAAS Committee on Science & Technology Engagement with the Public (CoSTEP) supports AAAS in its mission to “advance science, engineering, and innovation throughout the world for the benefit of all people” by providing insight and expertise regarding public engagement with science and technology. The objectives of the committee are:
- Share knowledge about the evolving relationship between science and society with AAAS membership and leadership. The committee will pay special attention to the relationship underrepresented groups have with science as well as controversial issues in science.
- Provide input and advice on AAAS activities related to public engagement.
- Promote evidence-based practices in science communication and public engagement with science and technology.
- Facilitate better understanding among scientists of public perspectives on scientific topics and policies.
For more about how the committee meets these objectives, see the CoSTEP Charge.
Committee members are appointed by the Association's Board of Directors. Members serve for a term of three years, beginning and ending with the AAAS Annual Meeting in February, and may be reappointed for a second term. Committee meetings are held quarterly. The committee has a chair and vice chair, who convene and lead the committee as well as relevant subcommittees. Both positions are appointed for a two year term, with opportunities to renew their appointments.
Committee Members
Chair: Liz Neeley
Liminal Creations, LLC
2020-2023
Vice Chair: Sara Yeo
University of Utah
2022-2025
Daniel Bastardo Blanco
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
2022-2025
Sibrina N. Collins
Lawrence Technological University
2018-2021, 2021-2024
Jerry DeSilva
Dartmouth College
2020-2023
Seema Kumar
Johnson & Johnson
2018-2021, 2021-2024
Patricia Marsteller
Emory University
2020-2023
Rabiah Mayas
Museum of Science and Industry
2021-2024
Steve Pierson
American Statistical Association
2017-2020, 2020-2023
Czerne Reid
University of Florida
2021-2024
Edna Tan
The University of North Carolina
2022-2025
Tim Watkins
National Park Service
2022-2025