BIOS293: Preparation & Practice - Science Policy

This course aims to demystify the U.S. science policy process and how science is used to create and influence the creation of law and policy in the U.S.

By the end of class, students should be able to:

1. Identify and describe key elements of the structure and function of the executive branch and its control over science-based agencies, and the legislative oversight and budgeting of these agencies.

2. Describe and analyze the policy making process, and the role of science and scientists in creating policy. This section will include broad overviews of the legislative process, competing political theory, and risk assessment/risk management models. We will also discussion of the role of scientists as agency employees and officials, and scientists as experts, interested parties, and reviewer.

3. Discuss and parse current issues, theories, and trends in science and policy. The ecology of innovation and policy in the U.S. Sometimes referred to as the emerging “science of science policy.” We will touch on a variety of cross-cutting issues in science policy development, including innovation theory, the role of uncertainty, and a discussion of the government’s role as a developer and repository of scientific data, and other current topics in the relationship between science and government.

4. Craft and deliver scientific testimony. In the last part of the class, each student will craft written testimony, and deliver oral testimony in a mock legislative or administrative hearing.