Scientists must do more to engage the public, educate members of their community about their research, and build support for sound science policies and strong research investments.
The Biophysical Society is excited to work with you to develop effective messages and impactful advocacy events to build support for science in your backyard and in the halls of Congress. Our Advocacy Program seeks to provide members with simple but impactful ways to engage their communities and build public support for science.
Opinion Piece Program
Opinion pieces or letters to the editor (LTEs) allow the Society and its members the ability to build local awareness of their research activities or policy priorities or to simply call attention to pressing societal issue. At 600-800 word, these concise articles allow members to communicate their personal backgrounds, their research and scientific work, and call attention a press issue affecting their country or region, in their own words. Pieces can be placed in media outlets around the world.
BPS staff is here to provide the support you need to get your piece published. We are happy to provide you with templates, help you brainstorm an idea, review your draft, and help contact media outlets to pitch your piece.
Sign up for the program and view our author tip sheet.
Host a Member of Congress at Your Lab or Visit Their District Office
Host a Congressional Tour:
BPS Staff will work with you to host a Member of Congress at your lab, university or workplace. Together, we will develop a scheduling request, loop in relevant internal parties (government affairs offices), and coordinate event logistics and press. The visits typically last an hour and provide a meaningful opportunity to demonstrate the importance of federal science funding to Members of Congress.
Visit a District Office:
Visiting a Member of Congress’ district office is an easy and impactful way to build a relationship with a policymakers. Together, we will schedule a time for you to visit with a Member of Congress or a staff member and develop advocacy materials for you to share. These meetings tend to last 30 minutes and provide a meaningful opportunity to advocate for your biophysics.