October 2018
Federal News Roundup
- President signs Labor-HHS bill, approving $2 billion increase for NIH for FY19.
- NSF releases new funding opportunity with application limit.
- SfN submits a letter of support for NABR to the Department of Transportation.
Importance of Postdoc Role in Advocating for Medical Research
On September 13, the 2018 class of SfN Early Career Policy Ambassadors (ECPA) participated in the Rally for Medical Research to display the importance of continuous investments in and understanding of medical research for the nation. ECPA Joyonna Gamble-George discusses the significance of postdocs’ roles in medical research advocacy, providing helpful materials and tips as well as offering different actions postdocs can take to support the movement and amplify its voice.
Garnering Institutional Support for Animals in Research
In an earlier op-ed featured in Inside Higher Ed, Mar Sanchez discussed the need for more institutional support for animal research. Sanchez continues the conversation through a video interview on Neuronline, vocalizing the importance in garnering effective institutional support for animal research and discussing strategies that can be used to maintain research credibility and incentivize continual progression of the field.
Early Career Policy Ambassador Applications Now Open
Applications are now being accepted for the 2019 SfN Early Career Policy Ambassadors Program. A year-long program for early career scientists interested in science policy and advocacy, the opportunity includes attending Hill Day 2019 and advocating at your home institution. Learn how to become an effective advocate for science and how to encourage others to do the same. Apply by Friday, January 11, at midnight EDT.
Showcase Your Advocacy Achievements at Neuroscience 2018
Share your neuroscience advocacy ideas, projects, and successes at the 2018 Advocacy Reception in San Diego. The reception will feature posters from the 2018 class of Early Career Policy Ambassadors and global neuroscience advocates. SfN leadership and advocacy partners will be available for questions. For more information and to indicate your interest, email advocacy@sfn.org by Friday, October 12.
Cast Your Vote Ahead of Neuroscience 2018
Ensure your voice is heard in the U.S. election on Tuesday, November 6, by voting early or submitting an absentee ballot ahead of Neuroscience 2018. Visit vote.org to learn about your state’s requirements and deadlines. The Society for Neuroscience's annual meetings have been scheduled through 2035 with no further conflicts. Please contact advocacy@sfn.org for more information.
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.
