VU sponsoring graduate students to attend 2025 AAAS CASE workshop
Vanderbilt University will be selecting and sponsoring up to four graduate students to attend the 2025 Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) workshop in Washington, D.C., from April 6-9, 2024. Hosted by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the CASE workshop is an opportunity for students in STEM and social science disciplines to learn about science policy and to interact with federal policy makers.
During the workshop, participants will learn about the structure and organization of Congress, the federal budget and appropriations processes, and tools for effective science communication and civic engagement. In addition, students will participate in interactive seminars about policy-making and communication. The day after the workshop, students will have the option to conduct meetings with their elected Members of Congress, accompanied by staff from the Vanderbilt Office of Federal Relations.
The registration fee and airfare are sponsored by the VU Office of Federal Relations. Hotel accommodations at the conference hotel and a per diem will be paid by the Vanderbilt University Graduate Leadership Institute (GLI) or The Office of Biomedical Research Education and Training (BRET) ASPIRE program.
Eligibility
We are seeking STEM graduate students with limited experience and knowledge of science policy and advocacy, who demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills. Students who attended the 2024 VU STEM Policy in DC trip are not eligible for this opportunity.
PhD students in the biomedical and life sciences who were admitted through the IGP or QCB must be post-qualifying exam at the time of application. PhD students who were directly admitted to a School of Medicine PhD program must have completed their degree coursework at the time of application.
Application Information
Applications are due by Friday, February 14 at 5:00 pm.
Apply at https://vanderbilt.infoready4.com/#competitionDetail/1963147
You will need to upload the following documents:
- Current CV highlighting significant leadership experience and service/outreach activities, as well as academic/ research experience.
- 1-page cover letter (single-spaced, size 11/12 font, 1″ margins) describing why you are interested in the AAAS CASE workshop and how will this opportunity will enhance your career and professional development.
- A brief description (300-400 words) of your graduate research, as you would describe it to a lay audience; for example, if you were going to describe it to a lawmaker.
Please note, although a letter of recommendation is not required to apply, your advisor will be contacted to provide a reference for you if you are selected as a finalist for this opportunity.