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MIT's Science Policy Initiative hosts its 14th year of Executive Visit Days

MIT scholars journeyed to Washington D.C. for discussions with top officials from federal executive bodies during the MIT Science Policy Initiative's 14th annual Executive Visit Days.

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MIT scholars journeyed to Washington for discussions with federal officials from executive...
MIT scholars journeyed to Washington for discussions with federal officials from executive departments during the 14th edition of MIT Science Policy Initiative's Executive Visit Days.

MIT's Science Policy Initiative hosts its 14th year of Executive Visit Days

In the span of Oct. 21-22, a motivated band of 21 MIT students, a postdoc, and the MIT Washington Office collaborated for the 14th Executive Visit Days (ExVD). Organized by the MIT Science Policy Initiative (SPI) and the MIT Washington Office, ExVD is a unique platform that allows students to mingle with federal officials and scientists from various agencies, learning about the intricate tapestry of science policy work and careers.

Across two exhilarating days, the crew paid visits to eight different establishments. Day one kicked off with a gathering at the MIT Washington Office and was followed by meetings with the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The second day was a bustle of meetings with the Department of Energy (DoE), National Science Foundation (NSF), Institute of Defense Analysis (IDA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These dynamic exchanges offered captivating insights into each agency's activities and how their work is interconnected with science policy.

One remarkable encounter was with OSTP, nestled adjacent to the West Wing at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. Boasting a staff of fewer than 200, OSTP is a specialized agency that directly advise presidents on all aspects related to science and policy. The extreme prestige and awe-inspiring atmosphere at the White House complex, coupled with intriguing discussions with Kei Koizumi, principal deputy director for policy at OSTP, left a profound impact on the students.

The MIT Science Policy Initiative (SPI) is a vibrant community of students and postdocs striving to spark meaningful dialogue between MIT students and the policy community. SPI arranges multiple excursions to Washington every year, enabling students to network with federal agencies and policymakers while exploring potential career paths in science policy, such as working directly for governmental bodies or advocating for science funding and policy changes. The ExVD events offer priceless opportunities to connect with officials, many of whom hold MIT degrees and are more than willing to discuss their paths towards careers in science policy.

Maria Proestaki, a postdoc researching organ-on-a-chip technologies at the Department of Biological Engineering, poignantly asserted: "This experience provided a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into the world of science policy and interact with representatives from several federal agencies. I firmly believe that scientists armed with policy knowledge are instrumental in creating effective, evidence-backed policies that can meaningfully improve society."

Alexandra Cabanelas, a PhD student specializing in biological oceanography at the MIT-Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Joint Program, added: "It was enlightening to notice recurrent themes across the agencies, specifically the emphasis on incorporating individuals from diverse academic backgrounds in federal roles. This highlighted that even if one isn't pursuing a science policy-specific degree, one can still thrive in these roles."

Joachim Schaeffer, a PhD student focusing on machine learning for batteries and the ExVD chair, encapsulated the sentiments of many participants: "Science and technology underpin the foundation of our society, especially now when it's crucial for scientists to collaborate with policymakers to tackle sweeping challenges like biosecurity, AI safety, and climate change. The integration of strong science and policies informed by science is essential for societal success."

The overall sentiment among the ExVD participants has been one of inspiration and education. Participants emerged feeling more enlightened and eager to integrate policy in their future careers or research, understanding that a scientific background is a valuable asset in the policy world.

  1. The MIT Science Policy Initiative (SPI) is a community that encourages learning about the intersection of science and policy, offering students opportunities to explore potential careers in this area.
  2. Across two days, the MIT students and postdoc discussed various aspects of science policy with officials from agencies like the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the National Science Foundation (NSF).
  3. Maria Proestaki emphasized that understanding science policy can help scientists create evidence-based policies that improve society, particularly in areas like health and energy.
  4. Alexandra Cabanelas noted how federal agencies stress the importance of diversity in academic backgrounds when filling policy roles, suggesting that opportunities exist for students from various fields.
  5. Joachim Schaeffer underscored the significance of science and technology in addressing societal challenges like climate change, emphasizing the need for strong collaboration between scientists and policymakers.
  6. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was one of the agencies the group visited, showcasing how environmental concerns are a key part of science policy discussions.
  7. Graduate students like Maria Proestaki and Alexandra Cabanelas gained insights into how their areas of specialization, such as organ-on-a-chip technologies and biological oceanography, intersect with policy.
  8. Thepriceless opportunities offered by the Executive Visit Days (ExVD) events enable students to network with policymakers holding MIT degrees and learn about their paths in science policy.
  9. report The ExVD events provided a platform for students to report back on their insights and experiences to the MIT community, potentially inspiring more students to pursue careers in science policy.
  10. Personal growth and self-development are aspects that can significantly benefit from a deeper understanding of science policy, as it allows students to contribute to meaningful change in society, education, and technology.

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