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Symposium 2022

Thank you to all who attended the 4th Annual SciPol Symposium! Keep an eye out for the details on next year’s 2023 symposium.

When: Saturday, May 7, 2022 | 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Where: Northwestern University – Norris University Center and Virtual

Public trust in science is always evolving, and questions surrounding how science is practiced, trustworthiness of information sources, and the persistence of science myths are growing day by day. Therefore, SPOT’s 4th Annual SciPol Symposium will focus on how and why the public chooses to trust scientists and their research, emphasizing the links between science policy and communication. Through this programming, scientists will be empowered to share their own research stories to the public, with the goal of positively influencing policy and public perception of science.

See below for information on lectures, panels, workshops, schedule id , and registration. Contact spotforcenu@gmail.com with any questions!

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Keynote Lecture – “Science in Real Time: What we can learn from play-by-play pandemic coverage and the intersection of research and the public”

Speaker: Becky Lang – Former Editor-in-Chief of Discover Magazine, Freelance Health and Science Editor, and Northwestern Alumna (Medill School of Journalism, BS)

Description: Explaining how science is relevant to all of us is already a tough job. Toss in a novel virus that spreads around the world, add to it some of the starkest politicization we’ve seen in decades and top it off with journalists who suddenly find themselves non-experts in an experts’ field, and you’ve got the recipe for a public that’s confused, exasperated and looking for answers.

Our keynote lecture from Becky Lang will address the fundamental themes of how science shapes public life, how the media facilitates these relationships and how the public decides to place trust in science – if they choose to in the first place. From a local to a national scope, Becky’s perspectives on how to hook a reader into a story and how she mediates scientists, journalists and the public will shape every scientist’s efforts to build trust with the public.

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Panel Discussion – “Professional Perspectives on Science Communication”

Panelists

  • Cyatharine Alias – Manager at Center for Neighborhood Technology (Urban Sustainability and Equity)
  • Cara Pratt – City of Evanston Sustainability and Resilience Coordinator
  • Dr. Kyle Dolan – Head of Science and Innovation at British Consulate-General Chicago, Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

This panel will focus on how science communication and policy go hand in hand, ranging from perspectives in international policy to data visualization. This event will start with select questions in the first half and open up to general Q&A in the second half. Topics will include but are not limited to career trajectory, personal experiences with bridging science and policy, how to overcome specific barriers in communicating science to the public, how the current climate has altered interactions with the public, and how scientists can move things forward with public trust in science.

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Workshops

Session 1 – “Combating Disinformation: The Role of Science in Voter Rights Advocacy”

*In-person only

Presenter(s): Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) and Science Rising

  • Linda Trey – Community and Partnerships Organizer for the UCS Clean Transportation Team

  • David Combs – Acting Campaign Manager for the UCS Global Security Program

Description: Now more than ever there is a need for scientists to be actively involved in civic life and conversations about policy. In this workshop from UCS and Science Rising, participants will learn how to identify and counter disinformation in order to more effectively advocate for evidence-based policy.

Outcomes:

  • Identify disinformation and the negative impacts associated with it
  • Construct counternarratives to combat disinformation
  • Learn how to increase you and your peers’ civic engagement

 

Session 1 – “Stop the Doom Scrolling: Communicating Science in the Modern Era of Distractions”

*Virtual option offered

Presenter(s): Dr. Vince Tedjasaputra, Director of Scientific Communications at American Lung Association, Ph.D. in Pulmonary Physiology

Description: Today, we’re all distracted by everything from the 24-hour news cycle, to email overload, to doom scrolling on social media – how can science communicators hope to break through the noise? The key is to customize messages for each audience in a visually appetizing way, but staying true to the science.

Outcomes:

  • Cover common content missteps we make as scientists and best practices for more effective and engaging presentations of data—presentations that encourage discussion, collaboration, and engagement on social media.
  • Discuss how attendees can improve their own presentations through real-life examples
  • Learn about powerful presentation tools freely available online

 

Session 2 – “Forms and Figures: Visual Literacy in Science”

*Virtual option offered

Presenter(s): The University of Illinois at Chicago

  • Kelly Cloninger, Clinical Assistant Professor in Biomedical Visualization

  • Sam Bond, Associate Program Director for Undergraduate Education – Life Science Visualization

Description: Images and figures are central to understanding and communicating science, but visual literacy is often not a formal part of scientific training. In this interactive workshop, our speakers will illuminate how scientists can use elements of visual design to convey compelling messages, both beautifully and efficiently.

Outcomes:

  • Learn principles of visual design relevant to the scientific fields
  • Think about new ways to visualize data in figures and other visual formats
  • Interact with figures and identify what elements can make scientific images more powerful

 

Session 2 – “New Media, New Audiences: Audiovisual #SciComm”

*In-person only

Presenter(s):

Description: Using different forms of media in your science communication practices can help you reach new audiences with your message! In this workshop, students will be introduced to science communication using audiovisual (AV) technology from two PhD students with experience in podcasting and TikTok video production using science content.

Outcomes:

  • Understand a background on how AV can be successful in science learning in both formal and informal education

  • Learn about how telling a scientific story through AV is similar and different to other media and how to choose the best medium based on your audience and goals

  • Digest examples of excellent science communication in podcasting, TikTok, YouTube, animation, and more

  • Practice translating science knowledge into a captivating and informative story told through AV

  • Gain resources on how to continue learning in AV skills to pursue personal science communication goals

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    Post-Symposium Networking Reception

    Our off-campus networking reception will be held at Five & Dime in Downtown Evanston. Come join us and meet science policy and communication professionals from across the Chicagoland area!

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Registration

Register for free using this link. Registration is currently open to students of all levels at Northwestern and external universities until the end of April. We look forward to seeing you on May 7th!

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Thank you to our co-sponsors!

Posted on No Comments on August 2022 Newsletter

August 2022 Newsletter

SPOT August 2022 Newsletter

Hi SPOT!

We hope everyone’s had a great summer, and are ready for the start of a new academic year! We have plenty of exciting events lined up for the upcoming year. Read on to find out about a few, and stay tuned for more to come in the coming months.

 

SPOT News and Events

  • Welcome to our New Board Members!

We’re excited to welcome six SPOT members to the leadership team! Visit our website to read about the current board members. 

 

  • Stay Connected to the SPOT Network

Have you joined our SPOT Slack and LinkedIn group? Join our Slack workspace to connect with current members, hear about science policy opportunities, and stay updated on SPOT news and events. Join our LinkedIn group to connect with the SPOT alumni network. Email spotforcenu@gmail.com and we will add you.

 

  • Book Club Discussion

If you are interested in joining our regularly occurring hybrid Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. This month, we’re reading Black, Brown, Bruised: How Racialized STEM Education Stifles Innovation by Ebony Omotola McGee (2020). Join the #book-club channel on our Slack if you’d like to share the book of the month to reduce purchasing/library reservations.

 

Other Opportunities

  • Campaign Volunteering

Northwestern Chemistry alumna, Dr. Marianne Lalonde, is running for Alderman in the 46th Ward for the February 2023 election. She won the primary for the same position in 2019 and ended up losing to the incumbent by 25/14000 votes. If you’re interested in learning more about her campaign, you can look at her 2019 platform here. You can also volunteer for her campaign if you wish by signing up here!

 

  • Evanston Participatory Budgeting

Want to make an immediate impact helping Evanston residents develop and pass local policies? Looking for opportunities this summer to make policy impact while directly engaging with the local community? We need your help to support Evanston’s very first participatory budgeting effort. This is an unprecedented $3 million opportunity for Evanston residents to fund policy ideas they propose themselves, and it can only happen with the help of enthusiastic volunteers passionate about local policy. Learn more and sign up today at https://pbevanston.nationbuilder.com/volunteer, or e-mail colleenoaposbrien2024@u.northwestern.edu if you have any questions.

 

  • City of Evanston Public Comments

Want to learn about and contribute to policies affecting our local community of Evanston? Attend and participate in an Evanston City Council meeting, held every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month. Submit a public comment to be given in person, via video, or via phone here! Find the meeting agenda here to learn when to tune in.

 

In the News

  • The James Webb Space Telescope released its first images, letting us peer into the universe’s distant past. This marks the culmination of a decades-long project set to succeed the established Hubble Space Telescope. While the Hubble looked at the stars primarily in visible light and ultraviolet, the Webb telescope will gaze at the early universe in infrared, allowing us to see previously invisible details in the birth of galaxies.

 

  • The Senate has passed the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, a bureaucratic evolution of Biden’s ambitious Build Back Better Bill. The legislative branch of the US government has failed to pass any significant action against the threat since its political beginnings in 1988, making this piece of legislation a major shift in Congress’ approach to climate change. The bill promises around $400 billion in tax credits over the next decade, aiming to steer the country towards a greener future. Boosts to Medicare negotiation power over prescription drugs and extensions of pandemic-era expanded subsidies are also included.

 

  • Not to be overlooked by its larger cousin, Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act into law. While the bill was primarily aimed at revitalizing the US’ semiconductor industry, a quarter of its funding will be used to accelerate the growth of zero-carbon industries and climate research in federal labs. The bill received strong bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress.

 

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Looking for a fun way to help people in our local Chicago community understand your science? SPOT’s outreach program, Science with Seniors, needs more volunteers for 2022! You’ll have the opportunity to present science topics of your choosing to elderly residents in both Evanston and Chicago, and practice your science communication skills along the way. Engaging with our local communities helps fight science misinformation and build public trust and appreciation of research, so we need YOU! Email meaganolsen2026@u.northwestern.edu to sign up.

 

  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email margaretwickerson2025@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!

 

  • Interested in contributing to local policy? SPOT is collaborating with Indivisible Northwestern and the Center for Civic Engagement to develop policy recommendations for the allocation of Evanston’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for COVID-19 relief. Opportunities to contribute include taking part in community assemblies and writing memos and policies on areas such as climate change and health care. This is a great opportunity to practice your policy-related writing skills and contribute to local policy! Email colleenoaposbrien2024@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!

 

  • Passionate about effective science communication? Looking to gain experience in media production? Come join SPOT’s In The Spotlight podcast team! We are looking for producers and editors to help research and produce episodes. No prior podcast experience is necessary, but welcome! Email emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu if interested.


  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

 

Find us on Twitter and Instagram for more scipol news and updates!



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Symposium 2021

Bridging the Gap:
From Science to Policy

Thank you to everyone who attended our symposium this year! If you missed any of the talks or panels or if you would like to see them again, you can find links to the recordings below. Stay tuned for next year’s 2022 SPOT symposium!

As scientists we often think that our results speak for themselves, but if we want our research to impact policy, we need to think beyond the lab. Building relationships and trust with legislators, policymakers, and the public are critical for the implementation of effective science-based policies. At SPOT’s 3rd Annual SciPol Symposium, learn how scientists can better bridge the gap between science and policy to ensure that research insights positively impact communities.

 

Keynote address: A talk on the history of science policy (Recording)

Speaker: Tobin Smith (Vice President for Policy, Association of American Universities)

Keynote lecture on the history of science policy. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions in this Zoom webinar format lecture.

Panel: Insights from the social sciences: What scientists should know about policy and public engagement (Recording)

Panelists:
Dr. Tabitha Bonilla (Assistant Professor, Northwestern Institute for Policy Research)
Dr. Susan Thistle (Associate Professor, Northwestern Department of Sociology)

A moderator-led panel discussion where attendees have the ability to ask questions via the Zoom webinar format.

Panel: Paths to Science Policy: There Isn’t Just One (Recording)

Panelists:
Dr. Jessica Creery (AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellow at NIH Office of Science Policy)
Dr. Jeffrey Margolis (Founder and President, Innovation Strategies Inc.)
Dr. Nancy Goroff (Professor, Stony Brook University Department of Chemistry)
Dr. Olga Lyandres (Senior Specialist, Delta Institute)

A moderator-led panel discussion where attendees have the ability to ask questions via the Zoom webinar format.

Lecture: A talk on law, the environment, policy, and science (Recording)

Speaker: Susan Mudd (Senior Policy Advocate, Environmental Law & Policy Center)

Lecture on the intersection of law, the environment, policy, and science. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions in this Zoom webinar format lecture.

Posted on No Comments on January 2022 Newsletter

January 2022 Newsletter

Hi SPOT,

Welcome to 2022! We’re back with plenty of opportunities to get involved this winter. Read on to learn more about what’s happening in the world of NU science policy.

 

SPOT News and Events

  • SPOT Slack

Have you joined our SPOT Slack? Join to hear about science policy opportunities, share wins, and be in the know for all things SPOT! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com and we will add you.

 

  • Don’t Look Up Lunch Discussion

Are you interested in discussing topics related to science communication and policy in a casual setting? We are resuming SPOT lunch discussions on Friday, February 4th from 1-2 pm with a discussion of the Netflix film Don’t Look Up! Watch the film (if you haven’t already) and join other students for a conversation about its portrayal of science. Although the discussion will take place over Zoom, we are offering lunch for pickup on the Evanston campus at 1 pm. Please register here. 

 

  • **New project** Collab with Citizens’ Greener Evanston

We are partnering with Citizens’ Greener Evanston to help educate our local community on climate change mitigation strategies. The product will be a series of one-pagers about topics like decarbonizing buildings including information on how residents can implement available tools in their own homes. To make these accessible, we will also convert information into infographics. Join this initiative here if you want to make an impact locally and gain skills on succinctly and thoroughly communicating science! This is the first phase of a potentially longer project to advise on policies in Evanston.

 

  • Book Club Discussion

If you are interested in joining our regularly occurring Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet bimonthly, starting in March to discuss Fatal Invention by Dorothy Roberts (2011)! Also, new this year, join the #book-club channel on our Slack if you’d like to share the book of the month to reduce purchasing/library reservations.

 

  • Member Highlight

Starting this February, we will feature one exemplary SPOT member each month on our Twitter and Instagram. If you know a SPOT member with a recent accomplishment in the world of science policy or who deserves to be featured, you can nominate them using this form. Self-nominations and anonymous nominations are welcome!

 

Other Opportunities

  • Volunteer Opportunity – Science Gallery Youth Symposium

The Youth Symposium is a four-day event that brings together young people across the globe to connect, exchange ideas and share knowledge. The theme is HOT AND BOTHERED – climate action. They are looking for proposals for workshops and sessions to contribute to the event. Learn more here!

 

  • Internship Opportunity – Dept. of Energy ARPA-E Summer Scholar

The Dept. of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy is seeking applicants for the Technology-to-Market Summer Scholars program. Read the job postings and submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample by the January 31st application deadline. 

 

  • City of Evanston Public Comments

Want to learn about and contribute to policies affecting our local community of Evanston? Attend and participate in an Evanston City Council meeting, held every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month. Submit a public comment to be given in person, via video, or via phone here! Find the meeting agenda here to learn when to tune in.

 

In the News

  • NASA has completed deployment of the James Webb Space Telescope! The primary mirror is now fully deployed on the $10 billion telescope, which should reach its destination 1 million miles from Earth in the next few days. Once it has arrived and been aligned, the telescope will be used to study some of the oldest and most distant objects in the universe. You can read more about the deployment and the JWST here.

 

  • The Pilsen Environmental Rights and Reform Organization (PERRO) is calling on the city of Chicago to deny a new permit for a metal shredder due to possible violation of air pollution laws. The plant would be located less than a mile from three schools. Read more about this ongoing situation here.

 

  • New York City Council bans natural gas in all newly constructed buildings. In an effort to cut carbon emissions, New York City follows cities like San Francisco and San Diego in a push towards electrification. Read more about the ban and proposed state legislation here.

 

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Looking for a fun way to help people in our local Chicago community understand your science? SPOT’s outreach program, Science with Seniors, needs more volunteers for 2022! You’ll have the opportunity to present science topics of your choosing to elderly residents in both Evanston and Chicago, and practice your science communication skills along the way. Engaging with our local communities helps fight science misinformation and build public trust and appreciation of research, so we need YOU! Email emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu to sign up.

 

  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!

 

  • Interested in contributing to local policy? SPOT is collaborating with Indivisible Northwestern and the Center for Civic Engagement to develop policy recommendations for the allocation of Evanston’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for COVID-19 relief. Opportunities to contribute include taking part in community assemblies and writing memos and policies on areas such as climate change and health care. This is a great opportunity to practice your policy-related writing skills and contribute to local policy! Email colleenoaposbrien2024@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!

 

  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

 

Find us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more scipol news and updates!

Posted on No Comments on November 2021 Newsletter

November 2021 Newsletter

Hi SPOT,

We’re back with another newsletter chock-full of news and opportunities for you all to take part in! Read on to learn more about what’s happening in the world of NU science policy!

SPOT News and Events

  • Board updates: new SPOT President!
    Please join us in congratulating our new SPOT President Kavi Chintam! Kavi will be leading this year’s SPOT initiatives along with our Vice President Emilie Lozier. We’ve also been joined by several new board members – please give them a warm welcome!

 

  • Special Joint Event with NETG: November Book Club
    The November book club will be in person with the One Book, One Northwestern book: The Story of More: How We Got to Climate Change by Hope Jahren (2020). We are excited to be co-hosting with Northwestern Energy Technology Group (NETG)! The book club will be held on Friday, November 19th from 4-5 pm in TGS Commons. Some snacks will be provided. RSVP to spotforcenu@gmail.com.

 

  • Science with Seniors Annual Interest Meeting
    Are you interested in sharing your science with our greater Evanston and Chicago communities? Want to practice your science communication skills? Come join us for an interest meeting on our outreach program Science with Seniors on Friday, November 12th from 12-1pm where we will discuss the program, go over sample materials, and sign-up volunteers. The event is hybrid virtual/in-person at Tech M120 with food provided – register here!

 

  • Book Club Discussion
    If you are interested in joining our regularly occurring Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet bimonthly! See above for details on November’s discussion.

 

Other Opportunities

 

  • City of Evanston Public Comments
    Want to learn about and contribute to policies affecting our local community of Evanston? Attend and participate in an Evanston City Council meeting, held every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month. Submit a public comment to be given in person, via video, or via phone here! Find the meeting agenda here to learn when to tune in.

 

  • From NSPN: AACR Science Policy Fellowship 2022-2024
    Applications are open for the American Association for Cancer Research’s 2022-2024 Science Policy Fellowship. The two-year paid fellowship includes a rotation through the AACR’s government affairs office, a policy role at the National Cancer Institute, and a congressional office or committee. The application deadline is November 21, 2021. The fellowship is open to current or new AACR members who have earned an advanced degree (PhD, MD, DO, etc) within the past 5 years, or will complete an advanced degree before the March 2022 start date. Learn more here and email any questions to Dana.Acton@AACR.org.

 

  • Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program
    The Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program is recruiting students to join the federal workforce in support of two agencies. The program places students with critically needed skills into paid internships and aims to develop a diverse pool of talent for these agencies. Participants in the program will receive:

    • 10-12 week summer internship with a federal agency.
    • $4,000 stipend
    • Professional development sessions, including an orientation and networking events throughout the summer.

Applications are due January 14, 2022. Learn more about this opportunity here.

 

In the News

  • The UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) is happening in Glasgow, Scotland October 31 through November 12, 2021. Over 100 world leaders will come together to set ambitious, albeit necessary, climate goals and discuss plans on how to meet them. Follow @COP26 to keep up with key moments and learn more about the conference here.

 

  • The Biden administration’s EPA has announced a three-year plan to address the contamination of drinking water by PFAS, a family of “forever chemicals” ubiquitous in manufacturing and consumer products. Read more here.

 

  • The Chicago City Council voted to approve the 2022 City Budget this past Wednesday. The budget includes $101.3 million towards climate investments and $77.8 million towards environmental justice initiatives. Read more here.

 

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Looking for a fun way to help people in our local Chicago community understand your science? SPOT’s outreach program, Science with Seniors, needs more volunteers for 2021! You’ll have the opportunity to present science topics of your choosing to elderly residents in both Evanston and Chicago, and practice your science communication skills along the way. Engaging with our local communities helps fight science misinformation and build public trust and appreciation of research, so we need YOU! Email emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu to sign up.

 

  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!

 

  • Interested in contributing to local policy? SPOT is collaborating with Indivisible Northwestern and the Center for Civic Engagement to develop policy recommendations for the allocation of Evanston’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for COVID-19 relief. Opportunities to contribute include taking part in community assemblies and writing memos and policies on areas such as climate change and health care. This is a great opportunity to practice your policy-related writing skills and contribute to local policy! Email colleenoaposbrien2024@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!

 

  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

 

Find us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more scipol news and updates!

Posted on No Comments on January 2021 Newsletter

January 2021 Newsletter

Happy New Year SPOTizens!

We have a LOT of new initiatives that we are excited to share with you this year. We may still be virtual, but that doesn’t stop us from hearing from experts in science diplomacy, engaging with senior community members, or learning together about the science of processed foods! Read on to find out how to get involved this January and check out the news section for the SciPol current events we’ve been reading and thinking about. Welcome back!

SPOT News and Events

  • Science with Seniors
    Looking for a fun way to help people in our local Chicago community understand your science? SPOT’s outreach program, Science with Seniors, needs more volunteers for 2021! You’ll have the opportunity to present science topics of your choosing to elderly residents in both Evanston and Chicago and practice your science communication skills along the way. Engaging with our local communities helps fight science misinformation and build public trust and appreciation of research, so we need YOU! Email emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu to sign up.
  • Science Diplomacy Series
    Our first event of the new year is coming up, featuring a science diplomacy talk from Dr. Fadila Boughanemi! Dr. Boughanemi serves on the European Commission as the Deputy Head of Unit for Asia, Africa, and Middle East and North Africa in the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation. In her talk, she will discuss the EU’s policies in international scientific cooperation. See more details and RSVP here!
  • Writing Opportunity: Science – The Endless Frontier
    We will be forming writing teams to submit position papers for the JSPG Special Issue, The Endless Frontier: Shaping the Future of Science Polity! See here for the call for submissions and links to relevant webinars, and keep an eye out for more details from us in the near future!
  • Book Club Discussion
    If you are interested in joining our Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet monthly! The January book is Salt, Sugar, Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us by Michael Moss.

Other Opportunities

  • NSPN recently launched the Lifting Underrepresented Voices (LUV) grant, which supports groups in initiatives that give early career STEM professionals opportunities to explore the use of science in addressing local, state, national, and international policy challenges. This grant is open to all groups (not just policy groups)! See here for more details.

In the News

  • Cell Press has begun inviting authors to submit diversity and inclusion statements in their papers. While not a mandatory practice, the publisher hopes to acknowledge those in science that have worked to improve on diversity and inclusion and to encourage others to do more – read more here.
  • The New York Times’s “The Year in Climate” summarizes the major climate news from 2020, with links to great articles from their publications – read more here.
  • In “How Science Beat the Virus,” The Atlantic’s Ed Yong examines the ways that science succeeded and failed in responding to COVID-19 – read more here.

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!
  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

Find us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more scipol news and updates!

Posted on No Comments on December 2020 Newsletter

December 2020 Newsletter

SPOT News and Events

  • Student Group Liaisons
    SPOT is looking for liaisons from other student organizations at NU. Liaisons would be points of contact for discussions about collaborative events or initiatives with SPOT. If your student org is interested in collaborating with us in the future, please send us an email at spotforcenu@gmail.com.
  • Memo Writing Opportunity with SustainNU
    We are writing policy memos to inform Northwestern’s next Strategic Sustainability Plan! We are looking for memo writers to draft policy recommendations for the University’s sustainability initiatives. This is a great opportunity to practice your policy-related writing skills! If you’d like to contribute or learn more about this initiative, please fill out the interest form here.
  • Upcoming Science Diplomacy Talk
    We will be hosting Dr. Fadila Boughanemi for a talk on “EU International Cooperation Strategy in Research and Innovation – a contribution to  Science Diplomacy” in January! Dr. Fadila Boughanemi is Deputy Head of the Unit for Asia, Africa, and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) at the European Commission on Science and Innovation. Her talk will focus on the EU’s science diplomacy activities in Africa and MENA Countries. Stay tuned for more information about the event!
  • Book Club Discussion
    If you are interested in joining our Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet monthly! This December, we will be reading from the Science of the People magazine with the overarching theme: Science Under Occupation. Specifically, we will discuss the topics “Decolonizing STEM Curriculum;” “STEM on Hold;” and “Indigenous Knowledge, Western Science, and the US Colonial Project.”

Other Events and Opportunities

  • Join the Science Diplomacy Affinity Group on Wednesday, December 16th from 5:30-6:30pm for a conversation with Dr. E. William Colglazier, Editor-in-Chief of Science & Diplomacy, Senior Scholar at AAAS, and former Science and Technology Adviser to the U.S. Secretary of State (2011 – 2014), about science diplomacy after COVID-19. Submit questions here; read a recent article by Dr. Colglazier here; and access the Zoom link (passcode: SciDip) and calendar event here and here, respectively.
  • Join the Duke Initiative for Science & Society on Friday, December 18 at 12:00pm EST for a conversation between Dr. Anthony Fauci and Alan Alda: “Restoring Faith in Public Science Agencies”. RSVP here.

In the News

  • The European Space Agency (ESA) announced it will launch the ClearSpace-1 in 2025, which will be the first mission of its kind to clear orbital space debris – read more here.
  • The world’s largest study on research integrity is at risk of cratering after nearly two-thirds of invited institutions have declined to participate – read more here.
  • The Arecibo Radio Telescope in Puerto Rico collapsed on Dec. 1, less than two weeks after the NSF announced the facility would be decommissioned – read more about the collapse here, and the events leading up to it here.

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Do you want to share your research with the public? We are always looking for more ideas for programming for our science outreach program towards elderly populations, Science with Seniors. If you have an idea of a topic you would like to present on, please reach out to emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu.
  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!
  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

Find us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more scipol news and updates!

Posted on No Comments on November 2020 Newsletter

November 2020 Newsletter

SPOT News and Events

  • Congrats to our new Science One-Pager Initiative (SOPI) Advisory Board: Elsa Koninckx, Peter Malonis, Carrie Schoeneberger, and Kelsey Wiles. Thanks to everyone that applied – we had to make difficult decisions and appreciate all of your thoughtful responses. We are looking forward to seeing this initiative grow!
  • Book Club Discussion
    If you are interested in joining our Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet monthly! The November book is Algorithms of Oppression by Safiya Noble.

Other Events and Opportunities

  • The National Science Policy Network (NSPN) will host its annual National Science Policy Symposium on November 13 and 14. The theme of this year’s symposium is “Science Policy and Racial Justice.” NSPN members can register to attend all sessions for free! If you’re not already a member, membership is only $20/year, so we encourage you to join.
  • November 18th – Scholars Strategy Network Meeting. Monthly chapter meeting is always the third Wednesday of the month from 7-8pm CST. To join email Emily Hallgren (ehallg2@uic.edu) to be added to the invite list.
  • The Union of Concerned Scientists is working with the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition to bring scientists together to virtually advocate for the Clean Energy Jobs Act on Thursday, November 12. This is an opportunity to directly engage with Illinois legislators about policy – register here.
  • EURAXESS North America interviewed Anouk De Bast, Head of the Science Office at the Swiss Embassy to the U.S., about what makes her country unique, Swiss knowledge networks, and the nation as a center of innovation. View the recording here.
    EURAXESS will also be holding a Science Diplomacy Webinar on December 3 – details are forthcoming, so save the date!

In the News

  • A treaty to prohibit nuclear weapons has passed into international law in the UN, despite opposition from major nuclear powers including the US – read more here.
  • The CDC will advise that the first COVID vaccines go to healthcare workers, who are among the highest-risk individuals – read more here.
  • “How Decades of Racist Housing Policy Left Neighborhoods Sweltering” – read how structural racism, policy, and climate change intersect here.

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Do you want to share your research with the public? We are always looking for more ideas for programming for our science outreach program towards elderly populations, Science with Seniors. If you have an idea of a topic you would like to present on, please reach out to emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu.
  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!
  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

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October 2020 Newsletter

Upcoming Events

  • Science with Seniors Interest Meeting and Info Session. If you want to learn more about giving science talks to senior citizens in the Chicago area, please RSVP here to attend our interest meeting on Friday, October 9th from 12-1pm via Zoom.
  • Skills for Bridging the Divide Workshop. We are partnering with Braver Angels and the Community Deliberation Network to hold a workshop called Skills for Bridging the Divide: Grad Students and Communication Competence on October 17, 2-4pm. Please note that to be an active participant there is a 40-minute pre-course; otherwise, anybody can attend as an observer. More info and registration details can be found here.
  • Book Club Discussion. If you are interested in joining our Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet monthly! The October book is Short Circuiting Policy by Leah Stokes.

Other Events and Opportunities

  • The COVID-19 pandemic means that many usual election judge volunteers (senior citizens) no longer feel comfortable serving this role. Volunteer to be an election judge and serve your neighborhood! Find more information here. If you have questions, please contact emmazajdela@u.northwestern.edu.
  • The Climate Science Legal Defense Fund is hosting a webinar titled How Scientists Can Engage in Political Campaigns and Activism on October 8, 5-6pm CT. Learn more and RSVP here. Only a few spots remain so register ASAP if interested!
  • The 45th Annual AAAS Forum on Science & Technology Policy will be held on October 13-14. This year’s forum will focus on two issues: (1) research during the pandemic and (2) structural racism within the scientific enterprise. Learn more and RSVP here.
  • Join Engineers and Scientists Acting Locally and the AAAS Center for Scientific Evidence in Public Issues on October 12, 2-3:30pm CT for an online panel discussion on Science Technology and the Vote. Hear how people with STEM backgrounds are working with local government to help ensure fair and free elections. Learn more and RSVP here.
  • The DICE lab in Northwestern’s Psychology Department is calling for undergraduate students 18 or older to take part in a multi-phase study investigating identities, beliefs, and actions related to the current political climate. The first phase is a short, confidential survey, for which participants will be paid $10. Follow this link and use the password “Northwestern2020” to begin the survey. Submissions end Monday, October 19, or earlier if enough people participate.

In the News

  • Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has announced it will require the scientists it funds to make their papers open-access immediately upon publication – read more here.
  • An Op-Ed in The Scientist offers advice on minimizing the divide between science and policy in the age of COVID-19 – read more here.
  • Researchers in Mexico are protesting a bill that would slash 68 billion pesos ($3 billion) of government funding for science and technology and divert it to the country’s COVID-19 response – read more here.
  • The Journal of Science Policy and Governance, in partnership with AAAS, published an issue which featured policy memos and analyses from early career scientists – including one memo from our very own board members Kavi, Olivia, and Suyog! Read more here.

Get Involved with SPOT

  • Do you want to share your research with the public? We are always looking for more ideas for programming for our science outreach program towards elderly populations, Science with Seniors. If you have an idea of a topic you would like to present on, please reach out to emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu.
  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!
  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

 

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September 2020 Newsletter

Upcoming Events

  • Picture a Scientist Screening and Discussion. SPOT has teamed up with University of Chicago’s Women and Gender Minorities in Physics (WAGMIP), Graduate Recruitment Initiative Team (GRIT), and the UChicago Science Policy group to screen Picture a Scientist on Wednesday September 16th. The film will be available to view at your convenience for 48 hours on either the 16th or 17th and there will be a follow up discussion on Thursday September 17th at 5:30 pm CST. To access the viewing link and discussion event, RSVP here by September 14th.
  • Welcome Back Event. SPOT will be having a kickoff event on Friday, October 2nd at 12pm. If you’re interested in learning more about existing and new initiatives, as well as meeting other people interested in science policy, please RSVP here.
  • Book Club Discussion. If you are interested in joining our Science Policy Book Club, please fill out this form. We meet monthly! The September book is On Fire: The (Burning) Case for a Green New Deal by Naomi Klein.

 

Other Events and Opportunities

  • SACNAS (the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) will be virtually hosting their Annual Midwest Regional Meeting from October 2-4th. The title of the meeting is “Science and Equity: Allyship and Inclusion in STEM and Beyond”. Registration is now open and free!
  • AAAS is hosting What’s It Like to Be a Fellow?, a virtual live chat with three AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellows about what an S&T Fellow’s day-to-day life is like, at 4pm on September 16. Learn more and register at the AAAS website.
  • The Ben Barres Fellowship is a $2000-$5000 award for professional development of trans, intersex, and non-binary graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The application deadline for the first round of awards is September 30, 2020.
  • Election volunteering opportunity: The COVID-19 pandemic means that many usual election judge volunteers (senior citizens) no longer feel comfortable serving this role. Volunteer to be an election judge and serve your neighborhood! Find more information here. If you have questions, please contact emmazajdela@u.northwestern.edu.
  • The Malta Conferences Foundation, a nonprofit which uses science as a bridge to peace in the Middle East, is looking for volunteers to help with website development, social media communications, newsletter publishing, and more. Click here for more details on how to apply for this professional development opportunity. For more information, visit their website or email malta@mychemist.net.

 

In the News

  • Dr. Kelly Singel compiled an extensive list of science policy fellowships — see here for more.
  • PNAS published an opinion piece on the science community’s obligation – and opportunity – to inform science policy — see here for more.
  • The US will invest over $765 million in a dozen research centers studying AI and quantum information — see here for more.
  • An international commission determined that gene-edited human embryos should not yet be used to create pregnancies – see here for more.

 

Get Involved with SPOT

  • We are recruiting four people to join an all-new review board for our one-pager program. Responsibilities will include working with the other members of the board, the one-pager writers, and the Legislative Outreach Lead (Kavi Chintam) to ensure one-pagers we deliver to legislators are of the highest standard. Time commitment is dependent on when one-pager requests are received, and will generally entail two weeks of revisions. You will also be required to attend a brief training session. If you are interested, you may apply here by 9/30. Feel free to reach out to kchintam@u.northwestern.edu with any questions.
  • Do you want to share your research with the public? We are always looking for more ideas for programming for our science outreach program towards elderly populations, Science with Seniors. If you have an idea of a topic you would like to present on, please reach out to emilyschafer2023@u.northwestern.edu.
  • Do you think legislators could benefit from learning more about your research or scientific interests? We are currently looking for people interested in writing briefs for local representatives about scientific topics as part of our Legislative Outreach Team. Email kchintam@u.northwestern.edu if you are interested!
  • Do you have any news/events/opportunities related to science policy that might be worth sharing? We welcome any items to add to the newsletter! Email spotforcenu@gmail.com if you want to share anything.

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