June 2018
Federal News Roundup
- President Trump to nominate neuroscientist Chris Fall to lead Office of Science at the DOE.
- New UK funding agency with £6 billion budget releases strategy outline.
- USDA drops proposal to allow third-party animal welfare inspections.
- NIH approves report urging chimps to be moved to sanctuaries.
NPRC Launches Educational Resources
The National Primate Research Centers (NPRC) has launched a website and Twitter account dedicated to animal research education. These resources will help to raise awareness about the importance of animal research and how it is improving health for both humans and animals. The website will also detail recent breakthroughs made possible with nonhuman primate research.
Be a Leader in Science Advocacy
“There are plenty of opportunities for scientists from all walks of life to become more involved in science advocacy,” says Michael Wells, former Early Career Policy Ambassador (ECPA) and current Training Advisory Committee member. Watch his short video on Neuronline for simple ways to get involved in science advocacy in your daily life.
Brain Disorder Briefing on Capitol Hill
On May 18, the Congressional Neuroscience Caucus (CNC) held a briefing, Kids with Brain Disorders: Getting Diagnosis and Correct Treatment. President and CEO of the Kennedy Krieger Institute discussed what remains to be uncovered about childhood brain disorders while patient advocates spoke about their experiences as parents of children with dyspraxia. Watch the briefing.
Become a Science Advocacy Expert
SfN and Research!America recently finalized a four-part webinar series teaching members science communication fundamentals. Watch the series now to gain new insight into advocating for neuroscience, including how you can leverage public opinion research and measure your advocacy outcomes.
Advance Funding for Your Research
Your advocacy efforts have resulted in significant victories, including the recent $3 billion increase in NIH funding. We can continue this momentum by making our voices heard in Congress. Contact your policymakers now to thank them for their investment in biomedical research and share how their support leads to your neuroscience breakthroughs in their district.
SfN Advocacy Resources
- Contact your legislator about research funding via the Advocacy Action Center.
- Learn how to engage your members of Congress and persuasively advocate for science.
- Engage your lawmakers directly by calling them to schedule an in-person meeting or a lab tour.
- Get involved in global advocacy.
- Talk to the public about the importance of animal research.
