The American Society of Naturalists is joining with the American Institute of Biological Sciences, the Society for the Study of Evolution, and other societies to sponsor the 5th Annual Biological Sciences Congressional District Visits event.
This national initiative is an opportunity for biologists across the USA to meet with their federal or state elected officials to showcase the people, facilities, and equipment that are required to support and conduct scientific research.
The event will be held throughout August 2013. This is a great opportunity for ecologists and evolutionary biologists, including faculty and graduate students, and people affiliated with scientific collections, to meet with elected officials. You can either invite your elected officials to visit your research facility or meet them at their office.
Participants will be prepared for their meeting with a lawmaker through an interactive training webinar. Individuals participating in this event will receive information about improving their communication skills, tips for conducting a successful meeting with an elected official, and information about federal funding for biological research.
Participation is free for ASN members, but registration will close on July 15, 2013. For more information and to register, visit http://www.aibs.org/public-policy/congressional_district_visits.html.
Dolph Schluter
ASN President