Introduction to Science Policy and Advocacy – Fall 2026

This course will introduce participants to the disciplines of science policy and advocacy through the lens of U.S. federal science agencies. Instructors will provide information through two discussion types: Introductory Lectures and Policy In Action Lectures. The Introductory Lectures will provide participants with a brief overview of the United States Government structure and legislative and regulatory processes, as well as how government agencies determine funding levels and oversee federally-supported research activities. Participants will also learn about the policy and regulatory processes that run parallel to these legislative actions. Policy in Action Lectures complement the background information provided through the Introductory sessions and serve as real-world (and in some cases, real-time) case studies of how the various stakeholders across the research landscape approach policy making. Also covered will be how scientists can participate in both advocacy and policy making efforts. Participants will demonstrate comprehension of the materials by developing a short policy memo to the Trump administration that outlines key opportunities and challenges for federal agencies supporting research activities (e.g., NIH, NSF, USDA, etc.) 

Informational Lecture Dates (via Zoom): October 28, November 4, November 11 (6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Eastern) Instructors will join 30 minutes early to answer questions and discuss ideas for the policy memo prior to the November 4 and November 11 lectures (optional – lecture starts at 6:00 pm ET). Informational Lectures will be recorded. 

“Policy in Action” Lecture Dates (in person): November 20 (10:00 am – 4:00 pm ET) and November 21 (10:00 am – 4:00 pm ET) includes lunch and breaks 

Location: NYU Langone Health, room TBD

Assignments/Due Dates: 

• Assignment #1: Memo Outline – November 18 

• Assignment #2: Pitch Presentation – November 21 

• Assignment #3: Final Policy Memo – December 11 

Faculty: 

• Yvette Seger, PhD, Nationally recognized science policy expert 

• Jennifer Zeitzer, Experienced advocate/government relations professional