Science in Action: My reflections on the AAAS 2025 Case Workshop
By Ayobami Oladapo, a doctoral student on Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences of the University of Purdue
Earlier this months, I had the Opportunity to Attend the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Catalyzing Advocacy for Science and Engineering (Case) Workshop in Washington, DC The 3-Day-Long Workshop was a Great Experience for Me, From Learning About the History of Us Science and Technology Policy, To Gaining An Overview of The Federal Government and ITS Budget Process, Understanding How Congressional Offices and Committees Operate, Exploreing The Landscape of Science Advocacy, and Development of Scientific Communication and Policies Participation Skills.
The workshop began with a welcome session and an introduction to the US science and technology policy. This session was a great base; Not only did I learn what scientific policy is, but also about its historical roots, how it differs from science itself and contrasts between science and policy formulation. The session emphasized the importance of recognizing and closing the gaps between science and politics to guarantee effective communication and informed decision making.
Ayobami attending the case workshop
One of the most insightful sessions for me was the general vision of the federal government, led by Josh Huder, the main member of the Government Institute of the University of Georgetown. He gave a complete description of how the federal government works. He broken down the structure of the federal government and highlighted the roles that several offices and officials play in the configuration of scientific policy. They also presented us to the federal budget process, which involved an attractive practical activity. We work in teams and use a sample, justice and science (CJS) budget to simulate the process of preparing and negotiating a federal budget. This practical exercise based on the team deepened my understanding of how financing decisions are made and demonstrated the complexity and strategic commitments involved.
The workshop also had two discussion panels. The first focused on how the offices and committees of the Congress operate, with speakers of the Science, Space and Technology Committee of the House of Representatives (majority personnel), Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation of the Senate (Minority Personnel) and Chamber Supervision Committee (majority personnel). These speakers provided a real world vision on how their roles differ between the Chamber and the Senate, between personal and committee offices. The second panel explored the panorama of defense of science, with professionals who currently work in policy and defense roles. The panelists included representatives of the Office of Science and Technology Policy of the White House (former leadership of politics), the American Geophysical Union (Assistant Director, Government Sciences and Relations Policy), CRD Associates (Senior Vice President) and Lewis-Burke Associates (senior practice of innovations of health bioscience). During the second panel session, speakers shared how they take advantage of their deep understanding of policies to actively advocate science. Whether it works in the government, non -profit or in private sectors, each panelist demonstrated how the defense of science can be a powerful tool to inform decision making and represent the needs of the scientific community within the policy space.
Ayobami in front of the United States Capitol Building
In general, attending the 2025 case workshop was a gratifying and enlightening experience for me. From in -depth shock courses to discussion panels and interactive activities, the workshop equipped me with new knowledge, resources and clarity. Before our Capitol Hill visit on the last day, I also took the time to explore some of the reference points and iconic monuments of Washington, DC. This brief tourist experience helped me connect more deeply with the historical and civic panorama that shapes scientific policy in the United States. I am grateful to the American Geophysical Union (AGU) for sponsoring my participation. This rare opportunity not only expanded my understanding of scientific policy, but also gave me power with the necessary practical knowledge that I can use to integrate the defense of science as part of the broader impacts of my scientific findings.
#Science #Action #Reflections #AAAS #Case #Workshop #Bridge #connecting #science #politics
