The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) is pleased to announce an opportunity for scientists to inform the nation’s science policy. This August, AIBS — with the support of event sponsors Botanical Society of America, Genetics Society of America, Long Term Ecological Research Network, Society of Systematic Biologists, and University of Michigan Biological Station, and Event Supporter Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve — Stanford University — will convene the 2nd Annual Biological Sciences Congressional District Visits event.
This nationwide event enables scientists to meet with their members of Congress in their own district rather than in Washington, DC, and allows elected officials to learn first-hand about the science and research facilities in their district. This initiative is an opportunity to show elected officials how science is conducted and to showcase the people, equipment and facilities that are required to support and conduct scientific research.
The 2nd Annual Biological Sciences Congressional District Visits event will be held throughout the month of August 2010.
Each August, Representatives and Senators spend time in their Congressional districts and home states. This event is an opportunity for scientists and representatives of research facilities to meet with their member of Congress to demonstrate how science is conducted and why a sustained investment in research and education programs must be a national priority. Participating scientists will either meet with their elected officials at a district office or may invite them to visit their research facility.
Participants will be prepared for their congressional meetings by AIBS Public Policy Office staff. Training for this event will be conducted through an interactive webinar program. In addition, participants will receive information about federal appropriations for biological and environmental research, tips for conducting a successful meeting with an elected official, and resources to craft and communicate an effective message. The AIBS Public Policy Office will provide participating scientists with guidance and some assistance with scheduling meetings. (Depending upon your institutional policy, individuals inviting their members of Congress to their facility may want to consult with the organization’s government relations officer.) Participation is free, but registration is required and space is limited. Registration will close on July 16, so log on to www.aibs.org/public-policy/congressional_district_visits.html. And thanks go to asymptotia.com for the science cartoon contest submission pictured below.
