ASGCT-AAAS Congressional Policy Fellow Reflects on First Weeks

As the inaugural ASGCT Congressional Policy Fellow, I am honored to have been chosen to represent the Society on Capitol Hill as part of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science and Technology Policy Fellowships (STPF) Program.

I came to the Hill wanting to understand more about how Congress can better support scientific research and maintain our nation’s competitiveness in this area. I also wanted to learn how legislation moves in Congress and how members of Congress interact with stakeholders to drive certain directions in a bipartisan manner, particularly on science and technology policy issues.

In the short time I’ve been here, my view of what can be achieved in the federal government has expanded. As I understand more about Congress, I have gained a growing appreciation of public servants and their dedication to making this country better. I am excited to be among them during the fellowship and without a doubt I will carry this experience and my learnings forward.

While I have come to Congress with a mission to support science and technology which is still a driving force in my career, being here has provided a much broader view of how we can better advance research both within and outside of government sectors. I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to a greater cause and learn from those who work to construct and deliver good bipartisan policy for science and the nation day in and day out.

Above all, I now have a greater appreciation of what a single person can do in Congress, but even more-so how teamwork and working across the aisle can move forward good policy.

Interested in Applying?

Learn more about the job duties, eligibility requirements, and deadlines on our website and apply through Feb. 24, 2025!

Dr. Bankston is the 2024-2025 ASGCT-AAAS Congressional Policy Fellow currently working in the U.S. House of Representatives.

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