The March for Science is an important step in helping to bring fresh energy, excitement, and attention to the sciences and scientists. But it's essential that we continue to work to bridge the gap between the public and scientists, push for robust research budgets, and insist on the critical role of science in every aspect of our society, from education to the environment to governmental policies. As an organization that has been supporting science and scientists for over two centuries, we know that sustained effort is crucial.
Below are some actions that you can take right now to keep up the momentum.
Inspire the Next Generation of Scientists and Engineers
Providing role models is crucial to encouraging young people, particularly young women and students from under-represented groups, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Just as important is providing early career STEM professionals with guidance and mentorship to help them navigate career options and hurdles.
That's why we believe in the power of mentorship. We have mentorship programs for those at every stage of their careers, whether young students just starting to learn about STEM, those in high school navigating college applications, as well as undergrads, grads, and early career scientists. Sign up to become a mentor today.
Stay Informed and Engage with Policymakers
Whatever your political leanings may be, it's crucial that scientists play an active role in advocating for science-based policies, whether as voters, as people involved in the local issues, or as elected representatives or advisors. Here are some of the ways you can start engaging right away:
- Make sure you know who your political representatives are and how to be in touch with them about science-related issues.
- Consider running for office in your locality or at the national level in your country. We need more scientists and engineers in office!
- Stay in touch with the March for Science to learn about more specific ways you can advocate for science-based policies.
Share Resources and Information with Scientists and the Public
There is a growing divide between scientists and many in the public, with misinformation and distrust filling the gap. An important way we can counter that is through better communication and science education. To that end, we've pulled together a short list of useful resources:
Resources for Fellow Scientists
- Developing Scientists Through Outreach
- Communicating Science to the Public
- A Dangerous Divide: The Two Cultures in the 21st Century
- Introduction to Scientific Teaching
- Human Health in the Face of Climate Change: Science, Medicine, and Adaptation
- Policies that Influence Gender Balance in STEM
- What International Scientists Should Know about Immigration and Travel
- Among many more field-specific eBriefings and Annals volumes
Resources for the Public
- The Science of Local Food
- Advances in Human Microbiome Science: Gut-Brain Interaction
- And our library of podcasts includes compelling and approachable scientific content, such as:
Help to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals
Following many remarkable successes surrounding the Millennium Development Goals, the United Nations created a new set of 15-year goals - the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From the moment they were announced, the Academy committed to taking an active role in mobilizing scientists and science professionals to be part of helping the world achieve this new set of goals. In addition to mentoring students working on SDGs-inspired challenges, we'll be hosting events in the months ahead to bring more scientists to the table. Sign up for our email newsletters to make sure you can be a part of these efforts.