There are many ways for scientists to engage policymakers, including elected and appointed officials and staff, at local, state, and federal levels.
Before engaging, scientists should consider where and when they can most effectively engage in dialogue with policymakers. Policy making is a cyclical process and scientists can engage at every point during the cycle (Clayton and Culshaw, 2013):
- Review evidence.
- Identify policy options.
- Appraise options.
- Assess uncertainties and risks.
- Choose an option.
- Implement an option.
- Monitor progress.
When preparing to engage policymakers:
- Think about when and how your science is used.
- Think about your "ask": what do you want the policymaker to do?
- Consider overlapping goals or interests you and the policymaker share and how to discuss them.
- Remember that if you meet with a policymaker, you may only have a few minutes to talk. Be prepared for a quick conversation!
For more about how to engage policymakers, see AAAS and other resources below.
AAAS Policy Engagement Programs & Resources
Training and Engagement Opportunities:
- AAAS Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop - This annual workshop is for students in science, technology, engineering, and math fields with limited experience and knowledge of science policy and advocacy who want to learn about the role of science in policy making, to introduce them to the federal policy making process, and to empower them with ways to become a voice for basic research throughout their careers.
- AAAS Local Science Engagement Network (LSEN) - This grassroots engagement and advocacy platform nurtures and guides local and state-based science advocates in evidence-based public policy.
- AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships - This program provides opportunities for outstanding scientists and engineers to learn first-hand about federal policymaking while using their knowledge and skills to address today’s most pressing societal challenges.
Guides and Reports:
- Recommended Practices for Science Communication with Policymakers - This guide outlines practices for presenting science to policymakers.
- Congress's Use of Science: Considerations for Science Organizations in Promoting the Use of Evidence in Policymaking - This report examines how scientific information is used in the personal offices of members of Congress.
- Working with Congress: A Scientist’s Guide to Policy - This guide was developed by science policy experts in consultation with members of Congress and government staff. The guide helps scientists determine which route of communication is best suited to their issue, who to speak to and when, what to do to prepare, and how to follow up.
Policy Programs:
Resources for Engaging Policymakers
- U.S. Congress - Look up bills, search for members of Congress and more.
- Federal Register - Provide public comments and learn about pending regulations.
- Engaging Scientists & Engineers in Policy (ESEP) Coalition - This ad hoc alliance empowers scientists and engineers to effectively engage in the policy making process at all levels of government.
- Writing Science Notes for State and Local Policymakers - This workshop from the MOST Policy Initiative in Missouri details how to write notes about pending legislation for policymakers, including providing a template for getting started.