Boston University Science Policy Network (BUSPN)

 

Boston University Science Policy Network (BUSPN) is a Science Policy Group committed to fostering a community of scientists engaged in public policy.

Our mission is to:
  1. Promote understanding of the role of science in informing policy both nationally and internationally
  2. To support interested graduate students and post-docs on the path to developing a career in policy
  3. To communicate the importance of science-led initiatives in legislation to the general public

To these ends, we have wide-ranging plans that include community outreach, inviting science policy experts to BU for talks, hosting student-led round table policy discussions, and sponsoring career exploration activities. We are also a chapter of the National Science Policy Network, opening up BUSPN members to a network of collaborations, the Annual Science Policy Symposium, and unique opportunities to practice engagement in science policy and apply for support for policy-related activities.

Whether you are aiming to make a difference with your career in the future, or are eager to help people in a concrete way during the course of your studies, the BUSPN community can help you transform your curiosity and good intentions into action.

Upcoming Events:

  • NSPN’s Minorities in Science: Exploring Diverse Career Paths in Science Policy

Event Details:

         When: June 3, 4, & 5, 2025 | 12pm -1pm ET 

         Where: Virtual | Register Here!!

*** Special note: June 5th Nonprofits Panel facilitated by BUSPN President Sai Sankeerth Madakasira as a part of NSPN Inaugural Leaders Cohort. ***

Panel Includes BU’s own Lynese Wallace, Director, Intersections of Our Lives

             

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    Advocacy Tools:

     

    PREVIOUS EVENTS

     

    Advancing Health Equity – Bridging Research and Advocacy
    April 16, 2025

    The BU Science Policy Network (BUSPN), BUSPH Doctoral Student Organization (DSO), and the Environmental Health Policy and Advocacy Group (EH PAG) co-hosted an impactful evening focused on advancing health equity through research and policy.

    The event featured a dynamic seminar on designing policy-relevant research, offering insights from experts on how to align academic work with real-world health challenges. Attendees then connected over a networking dinner, fostering informal discussions and new collaborations. The evening concluded with an interactive workshop on translating research into advocacy, equipping participants with tools to effectively communicate findings to policymakers and the public.

    This event brought together a passionate community committed to bridging the gap between research and advocacy in the pursuit of health equity.

     

    Introduction to Science Policy and Biomedical Careers in Science Policy Panel Discussion:

    2025 AAAS Annual Meeting – Recap

     

    Cross-campus Science Policy Mixer.

    MIT’s Science Policy Initiative along with Harvard Griffin GSAS Science Policy group is organizing an upcoming social to connect students interested in science policy from across Boston-area universities and has invited BU students to join them!

    Event held on Thursday, February 27th at 6 pm at MIT, at Dynamic Engagement Node (DEN), MIT Building 3, Room 108.