Engaging Scientists in Policy Discourse

Today's science is largely funded by taxpayer dollars, and because of this, scientists have a responsibility to ensure that their research is being effectively communicated back to taxpayers and to the policy makers who determine the distribution of those funds. The importance and impact of effective science communication is compounded when research is used to inform legislative action. Science impacts policy, and policy can impact science. However, the formal education of scientists does not usually include specific training on interacting with science policy. This article describes strategies for engaging with science policy-starting with simple and easy policy actions, and delving into more complex event planning and group organizing tasks. Whether advocating for evidence-based policies or policies that impact the scientific enterprise or STEM education, practicing skills pertinent to science policy can help you gain comfort in translating your experiences and experiments into lasting change.