Science Policy
From Labs to Legislation
Our science is not done in a vacuum - particularly for those working in natural and environmental sciences, researchers are well aware of the implications their findings have on modern and future society. Now more than ever, it is imperative that scientists find ways to engage with decision makers, at all levels, to advocate for policies that are data-driven and equitable.
My interest in science policy began after a meeting on the theme during an international conference in 2017. Some of the most impactful minds in cryospheric research exchanged frustration with feeling unheard or ignored by decision makers, whose unambitious policies were simply inadequate to prepare us for what the science suggests is to come. It struck me that, in the words of Cool Hand Luke, “what we’ve got here is failure to communicate”! Afterwards, I became very curious about the science-policy interface, and, as a natural-born communicator, decided to further explore this disconnect.
I have since completed two science policy fellowships at the international and state levels, as well as multiple workshops on communicating science to a wide range of audiences through story-telling and opinion editorials. I’m excited to be joining the second cohort of AGU’s Local Science Partners, a program designed to build long-lasting relationships between scientists and their federal legislators. Following my PhD, I plan to build a career in the science policy space, working towards a sustainable, responsible, and equitable future.
As a 2022 COVES Fellow with the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, I supported environmental engineers with resiliency projects to protect Virginia’s 7,000+ miles of shoreline and economically important fish stocks.
State-level regulatory agencies like VMRC play a critical role in managing natural resources and advancing legislation to reflect the best available science.
One of my many roles as an intern with the UN Environment Programme was to help organize the World Environment Day Green Fair.
This was a great chance to engage with delegates and think about feasible climate solutions.
We hosted over 30 sustainable vendors and 1,000+ visitors!
International climate policy affects us all, but rarely are the discussions and outcomes shared in an accessible way.
As a co-organizer for Polar Impact, I helped organize the #COP26xPolarImpact social media takeover, which gave a platform for climate researchers, activists, Indigenous leaders, and others to share their work and ideas with a wide audience.
Environmental changes in the polar regions, like Antarctica, may seem to many too far away to be concerned with.
However, this is not the case!
Check out my Instagram Q&A to learn about how connected the Antarctic is to the rest of the world.
Science communication is an important part of reaching future and current decision makers!