From the lab to Capitol Hill: A GPGG Student’s Path to Science Advocacy

This semester, Erin Cullinane, a student in the Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics (GPGG), was one of four Boston University students selected to attend the AAAS CASE Workshop, hosted by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The CASE (Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering) Workshop is an annual workshop designed to equip STEM students with the tools necessary to engage in science policy and advocacy. Through this workshop, participants gained insight into the critical role of science in policymaking, while also learning how to effectively communicate scientific perspectives to policymakers and the public. Over the course of the workshop, students participated in an intensive, multi-day curriculum focused on the federal policymaking process.

During the first three days, attendees explored the structure and function of Congress, as well as the intricacies of the federal budget and appropriations process. These sessions provided a foundational understanding of how scientific research is funded and how policy decisions directly impact the scientific community. The final day of the workshop culminated in meetings on Capitol Hill, where students engaged directly with legislators representing their states. These conversations offered a valuable opportunity to advocate for science-informed policy and to share personal experiences that highlight the real-world impact of federal decisions. For Erin, this included discussing how cancer has affected her family and emphasized the importance of expanding access to early detection and cancer screening. By sharing her story, she helped underscore the need for more comprehensive and equitable healthcare policies. These interactions play a vital role in bridging the gap between scientists and policymakers, to help foster a mutual understanding of more informed decision-making.

In addition to her participation in the CASE Workshop, Erin has been actively involved in science policy advocacy through her work with the Scientist Network for Advancing Policy (SNAP). Founded by graduate students, SNAP is a grassroots coalition that’s dedicated to mobilizing scientists and strengthening the connections between researchers, policymakers, and the broader public. SNAP supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at increasing scientific engagement in civic processes and promoting evidence-based policy.

Among some of SNAP’s key initiatives is “Stance on Science,” a project that engages political candidates across multiple states by asking them to respond to science policy-related questions. These responses are then made publicly available to enable voters to easily compare candidates’ positions on critical scientific issues. SNAP also maintains an active blog where members contribute articles on topics at the intersection of science and policy, which helps to foster dialogue and raise awareness.

Since joining SNAP last fall, Erin has actively contributed to several of these initiatives, further demonstrating her commitment to science advocacy and public engagement. She also had the opportunity to attend the AAAS Annual Meeting, further expanding her engagement with national science and policy community and connecting with leaders across disciplines. Through both her involvement with SNAP and participation in the CASE Workshop, she continues to develop a strong voice for the scientific community, who is working to ensure that research and evidence remain central to policy discussions.