BESC Congressional Visits Day

Each year, the Biological and Ecological Sciences Coalition (BESC), a group co-chaired by AIBS, hosts a Congressional Visits Day in Washington, DC. This event is an opportunity for scientists to meet with their members of Congress about the importance of federal support for biological research and education. Event participants advocate for federal investments in biological sciences at federal agencies, such as the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey, among other federal agencies.

Join Us for the 2012 BESC Congressional Visits Day

This year's event will be held on 28-29 March 2012 in Washington, DC. The first day of the event includes presentations on the federal budget and a communicating with policymakers training program that will prepare participants for meetings with congressional offices. The second day is spent on Capitol Hill meeting with members of Congress and their staff.

Scientists and graduate students who are interested in communicating the importance of federal investments in scientific research and education to federal lawmakers are encouraged to participate in this important event.

Space is limited and registration is required. Due to space limitations, we may not be able to accommodate all interested parties.

BESC is not able to pay/reimburse participant expenses associated with participating in this event.

The ideal participant will:

• Have an interest in science policy.
• Work in a scientific profession in the biological sciences or is currently enrolled in graduate school.
• Be able to speak about the importance of biological research funded by NSF and other federal agencies, and provide compelling examples from their own experiences.
• Be able to pay their hotel, food, and travel expenses.

Express your interest in participating in the event by completing the form below. Space is limited and it may not be possible to accommodate the participation of all interested individuals. Individuals will be contacted by event organizers to confirm participation and to provide supplemental event details.

Graduate students: Consider applying for the AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award. Travel and lodging expenses for this event will be paid by AIBS for the winners of the 2012 EPPLA.

Registration for the 2012 event has closed