Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop

The Graduate School will fund two University of Wisconsin–Madison graduate students to attend the Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) workshop in Washington D.C. The workshop, sponsored by a coalition of scientific groups including the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), is organized to educate STEM graduate and undergraduate students who are interested in learning about the role of science in policy-making, to introduce them to the federal policy-making process, and to empower them with ways to become a voice for basic research throughout their careers. The entry-level workshop is designed for students in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, with limited experience and knowledge of science policy and advocacy who want to learn more about science policy.

The 2024 CASE Workshop will take place April 14-17, 2024, in Washington D.C.

The deadline to apply is Sunday, February 11, 2024.

• Statement of interest (maximum 500 words) addressing:
  • why knowledge about science policy and advocacy is important to emerging scientists,
  • why effective science communication is an essential skill for emerging scientists,
  • and specific ways in which you will bring what you learned back to campus and share it with fellow graduate students.

• Your current CV or résumé
• Letter of support from your faculty advisor

This is an entry-level workshop. Priority will be given to applicants who can articulate the importance of science policy, advocacy, and communication skills for emerging scientists, but there is no requirement for anything beyond basic knowledge of these areas. Applicants should demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills.

Award Information
The Graduate School will cover the cost of travel, accommodations, meals, and event registration for the selected graduate students. The selected graduate student will participate in the workshop in Washington, D.C., April 14-17, 2024. Participants will learn about the structure and organization of Congress, the federal budget and appropriations process, and tools for effective science communication. In addition, students will participate in interactive seminars for both policy-making and communication. By the end of the workshop students will have an opportunity to learn about ways to remain engaged and involved either through a relevant professional society or through on-campus activities. The day after the culmination of the workshop, students will form teams and conduct meetings with their elected Members of Congress and congressional staff members, putting into practice what they’ve learned.

Eligibility
Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate degree program at UW–Madison (including double degrees). The workshop is designed for students in science, technology, engineering, and math fields with limited experience and knowledge of science policy and advocacy who want to learn more about science policy.
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