Engaging Scientists in Policy and Advocacy (ESPA) is a National Science Policy Network (NSPN) chapter at the University of Michigan. ESPA is a graduate student-led organization that provides training in and opportunities to implement effective science communication, advocacy, and comprehension and analysis of science policy to its members. Membership is open to undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, faculty, and staff in STEM-related fields at the University of Michigan. Learn more about how to become involved below

Upcoming ESPA Events

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RELATE Workshop 

January 22 | 4-6PM | THSL 6330

RELATE has curated an adaptable workshop that focuses on effective and accessible science communication. Participants will learn how to identify and craft central messages in their presentations as well as tailor their language choice based on the background knowledge of the audience. Please RSVP for this event to let us know if you plan on attending!

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You can explore all of our upcoming and recent events by checking out our event calendar

ESPA Announcements

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Our January newsletter is out! 

January 8, 2025

ESPA will be distributing a monthly newsletter on the first of every month via email. The newsletter will also be made available on our website. You can read our January newsletter here!

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EUpcoming Events offered by NSPN & UCS Allied Groupsents

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January 22, 2025 

Virtual | 12:30PM - 1:30PM EST 

Pathways to Policy: State Science & Technology Policy Fellowships 

REGISTER 


Join NSPN for a panel discussion with representatives from state Science & Technology Policy Fellowship programs, such as the California Council on Science and Technology (CCST) Science & Technology Fellows Program, Missouri Science & Technology Policy Initiative Fellowship Program, and New Jersey’s Eagleton Science and Politics Program. Learn more about these different programs and upcoming application cycles and how engaging in state policy can impact a future career in science policy. Register here today! 

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February 6, 2025 

Virtual | 7:30 - 8:30PM, EST 

NSPN Science on the Ballot Meeting 

REGISTER 


Join NSPN for their Science on the Ballot initiative which aspires to equip scientists and communities with the skills to engage with political candidates and promote evidence-based decision making. Participants in this initiative will gain advocacy training, coalition-building strategies, and skills fostering connections with scientists, policymakers, and the public. 

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February 25 - 28, 2025 

Virtual | 1PM - 2PM Daily, EST 

NSPN Science Policy Career Exploration Week 

REGISTER


Join NSPN for this four-part webinar series to explore diverse career paths in science policy and obtain practical guidance for navigating various career paths in federal and state government and nonprofit and private sectors.  This is a great opportunity to gain unique insight into careers in science policy! Register here today. 

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May 3, 2025   

NSPN Annual Symposium 

Location: Rainier Club, Seattle, Washington | In-person 

ABSTRACT | REGISTER  


Abstract Submission Deadline: January 6, 2025 

Early Bird Registration Deadline: February 1, 2025 

Final Registration Deadline: May 3, 2025 


Join NSPN for a symposium exploring global challenges including climate change, public health, privacy, and more through the lens of different industries. This a fantastic opportunity to connect and network with other professionals interested in science policy. Learn more here and register

Stay Connected! 

Join our email list and Slack channel by following the link below and filling out the ESPA interest form

Follow us on LinkedIn and X to stay up to date 

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ESPA is funded as a Rackham Interdisciplinary Workshop and is a member of the National Science Policy Network (NSPN) and Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) Allied Groups