The MOST Policy Fellowship team attended the AAAS Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona from February 12th through the 14th and had a blast connecting with other scientists and science policy professionals. This year’s focus on Science @ Scale reflects our own core objective: ensuring that scientific research does not exist in a vacuum, but serves as a scalable foundation for informed public policy.
Dr. Isabel Warner served as a feature panelist comparing and contrasting federal and state science policy work and led a workshop on how to write science and technology policy briefs for legislators. “I hope folks walked away with a better understanding of what kind of inputs and constraints shape the legislative process at the state level, and how they can communicate their work for maximum impact,” said Dr. Warner. “We aimed to show not just how we keep it short and simple, but why.”
Dr. Vikram Lakhanpal noted that “a running theme throughout the conference was engaging non-academics in product scientific conversations,” and saw an example of it in a story told by Dr. Julia McQuillan about the way cultivated or lab-grown meat “stakeholders were able to recognize certain interests that they all shared, including food security, sustainability, and animal welfare.”
Fellows attended panels and workshops on topics ranging from AI and policing to cultivated meat. “My standout session was a look at how the history of technology can inform our approach to AI,” said Dr. Jennifer Bean, “the discussion offered perspectives on how historical patterns of technology regulation and public opinion can help us navigate the current limitations and possibilities of artificial intelligence.” Dr. Lakhanpal had similar thoughts on Dr. Jacob Hamblin’s talk on the “U.S. funding of science during the cold war,” including “the connection between research and the military, and how science can also be a form of soft power. I enjoyed his historical perspective, and how he was able to present competing narratives on how scientists in that era perceived themselves and were perceived by others.”
Fellows were introduced to new research and resources, as well. Dr. Keene Nachman presented about the importance of considering cumulative chemical exposure and interactions, rather than single exposure events. “He walked us through a database that provides information on single and cumulative exposures and provides more accurate information about possible health effects,” said Dr. Alejandra Villegas Lopez. “I immediately thought about drug interactions. Possible adverse drug interactions are flagged as prescriptions are checked.” She was excited “that this connection as it relates to environmental chemicals is being studied.”
Fellows also expanded their networks during the conference. They participated in the Science Policy Fellowships Speed Networking event with other state and federal policy fellows and alumni. “I love a space where you can just ask someone ‘what do you do? How do you like it?” said Dr. Warner, “I met people who worked at national labs, for Congressional committees and members, and for university research systems. I always walk away from these events with a deeper understanding of a career path or job I didn’t even know existed beforehand. It’s very cool.” Dr. Lakhanpal judged student posters and noted how “it was fun to get back into the academia mindset and listen to graduate students present on their projects.”
The meeting provided opportunities for strengthening our capacity and expanding our impact. Executive Director Allison Davis joined other State Policy Fellowship leaders in a workshop organized by Sci4Pol Collaborative, and we all spent time at the state policy fellowships booth talking with prospective applicants. Program Manager Isabel Warner “appreciated everyone who came by the booth; it’s great to talk to folks who are interested in the fellowship, and folks who are interested in collaborating or being a resource for the Fellows as they answer questions for the legislature.”
Perhaps most importantly, the Fellows team made time for fun and food. They attended the AAAS Section mixers, Science Policy Shindig, Science Policy Reception, and Closing Reception, in addition to making time to grab dinner as a team. They also availed themselves of the local fare, “I’m a sucker for a good street taco and as much horchata as they’ll give me,” said Dr. Warner. Dr. Bean continued her tradition of “finding a local donut shop and trying the local favorite - the churro cheesecake donut was as good as it sounds!”
Altogether the team had a fantastic time and looks forward to attending the next AAAS Annual Meeting in Chicago. In the meantime, Missouri’s legislative session continues! Fellows have hit the ground running upon their return and are working hard to fulfil the many legislative requests for Science Notes.