OSL Spotlight: Science Policy Outreach Taskforce (SPOT)
How would you describe your organization to someone who hasn't heard of it?
Formed in early 2017, the Science Policy Outreach Taskforce (SPOT) is a non-partisan organization at Northwestern University that advocates for the inclusion of science in policymaking and the accessibility of science for the voting-aged public. Members pursue tangible action through collaborations with local organizations, direct interactions with legislators, and outreach to the public. Members can learn about science policy and communication through workshops, seminars, and discussions. As a group, our combined efforts allow for a greater impact toward the advocacy of science in politics than any one of us acting alone.
Who all is eligible to join your organization?
Any graduate student or postdoc is eligible to join SPOT, and anyone (including undergraduates) can attend our programming. Although much of our membership is from STEM departments, we always urge and welcome non-STEM researchers to join us as well due to the interdisciplinary nature of science policy and communication.
How does one "join" your organization?
We have a Slack workspace and a listserv that anyone is welcome to join. Simply email spotforcenu@gmail.com and ask to be added to our listserv and/or to receive the “join” link for Slack to get the latest on our outreach events, monthly discussions, and policy-related ventures.
What can new members expect from your organization?
To learn A LOT and feel more connected to your community! Many of us are used to thinking about science from a purely research-based, academic perspective, but it’s important to think about the broader impacts of science, too. As you learn about the use of science in policy decisions and develop new skills in policy and science communication, you’ll inevitably feel inspired to get involved in our local community. SPOT offers many ways to create an impact, including giving community science talks, advocating for science to legislators, writing policy briefs for our local government, working on policy initiatives with local organizations, and exploring careers in science policy and diplomacy.
What is your organization's biggest annual event?
Every year in the spring we hold a Science Policy (SciPol) Symposium with panels, lectures, and workshops featuring experts from the region in science policy, communication, and diplomacy. This full-day event is open to the public and completely free, with food and networking opportunities provided for all registrants. So far, we have held four symposia and we look forward to continuing to offer this event for years to come!
What is one of your most popular events/activities?
Besides our annual symposium, one of our other most popular programs is Science with Seniors, where members have the opportunity to give science talks at local senior centers in the greater Evanston/Chicago area. This is an important way to engage our local community because older Americans are the most dedicated voting demographic and have a huge influence on voting decisions, and we want those decisions to be scientifically informed. Presenters are encouraged to tie their science topic into news or local events, and each session brings lively discussion with our participants. It’s also a great way to practice your science communication skills!
What would you say is one of your organization's biggest successes or achievements?
Our Science One-Pager Initiative (SOPI) is a free, by-request service constructed by SPOT using peer-reviewed sources on a science topic requested by an Illinois legislator. We have produced 15 one-pagers and have received repeat requests from four legislators since the program’s inception. Topics have ranged from electric vehicles to HPV vaccines. To promote the program, we also have traveled to Springfield to meet with legislators and plan to do so again within the next couple of years.
What impact do you think your organization has on the TGS community?
We are the sole graduate student group dedicated to science policy, a field that is growing in popularity and importance. We provide opportunities for TGS members to develop skills in science policy and communication while also taking tangible action in our university, local, and state communities. People can be as involved as they wish to be, from attending book clubs to helping develop policies with Evanston grassroots organizations.
What is one thing you want everyone to know about your organization?
You don’t need to know anything about science policy to get involved—just have a willingness to learn and a passion for EVERYONE within our communities to benefit from science by interacting with legislators and the public alike!
Categories: Around Campus