Many scientists and engineers seek to engage with policymakers and there is a clear need for them to do so. However, very few receive the training necessary to effectively impact public policy. This online module will provide an introduction to the policymaking process and practical tips for engaging with the policy community.
Many scientists and engineers seek to engage with policymakers and there is a clear need for them to do so. However, very few receive the training necessary to effectively impact public policy. This online module will provide an introduction to the policymaking process and practical tips for engaging with the policy community.
As public policies become increasingly complex and technical in nature there is a clear need for scientifically informed solutions to major public policy challenges. However, most researchers do not have the training to effectively engage with policymakers.
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Prior to joining MIT, Drew served as the Global Change Science Lead at the US Global Change Research Program and as the staff lead for two chapters of the Fifth National Climate Assessment. He has advised multiple US Senators on energy, environment, and scientific research policy issues, including a year as an AAAS/ACS Congressional Science and Engineering Fellow. During his doctoral studies, Drew served on multiple advisory committees within the California Natural Resources Agency and as a consultant for the California Council on Science and Technology.
Drew received his PhD in Chemical and Environmental Engineering with a Designated Emphasis in Public Policy from the University of California, Riverside and his BS in Physical Sciences Education from LeTourneau University.
Chappell Lawson is an Associate Professor of Political Science at MIT. Professor Lawson's recent work has focused on homeland security policy, Mexican politics, the effect of candidates' physical appearance on their electoral success, and political leadership.
From September 2009 through February 2011, Professor Lawson was on leave from MIT as a political appointee in the Obama Administration, serving as Executive Director and Senior Advisor to the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Before joining the MIT faculty, he served briefly as a Director of Inter-American Affairs on the National Security Council staff during the Clinton Administration.
Professor Lawson was a National Fellow at The Hoover Institution, Stanford University (2002-2003) and a Visiting Research Fellow at the Center for U.S.-Mexico Studies at the University of California, San Diego (1998-99). He received his Ph.D. from Stanford University in 1999 and his AB from Princeton (the Woodrow Wilson School) in 1989.