The UCS Science Network
Scientists working for a better world
Are you interested in using your expertise, knowledge, and dedication to make a difference? Join the UCS Science Network, a continuously growing community of more than 20,000 experts—a community that plays a critical role in advancing science-based solutions to some of our most pressing problems.
As a Science Network member, you will gain access to:
- Online and offline opportunities to inform the public and influence policy makers
- Skills-based workshops and other opportunites to improve your communication and advocacy skills
- A chance to collaborate with UCS staff and fellow Science Network members in making a difference
Can I Join?
The UCS Science Network is intended for scientists, engineers, health professionals, and economists with (or working towards) an advanced degree. If you don't fall into any of those categories, and you want to get involved in helping UCS make a difference, we encourage you to join the UCS Action Network.
Starting in September: The Science Network Workshop Series!
These workshops give you an opportunity to strengthen your communication and advocacy skills. Presented by UCS staff and other veteran scientist-advocates with years of experience in communicating successfully to media, policymakers, and the public.
Current Science Network Opportunities
Here are some of the things Science Network members can do right now to help advanced science-based solutions to the challenges we face:
Webinar: Reforming Coastal Insurance
Science Network Happy Hour in Iowa
Workshop: Advocacy for the Aware but Busy Scientist
Ensure Your State Senator is Making Smarter Decisions on Fracking with Science
Opportunities to Be Part of the (Science-Based) Solution
The Science Network offers many ways to get involved with UCS staff on exciting policy and advocacy initiatives: meeting with policy makers, speaking to the media, delivering instructive testimony, signing on to expert letters to elected officials, conducting research and environmental impact assessments, serving on federal advisory committees, and many more.
- From cleaner cars to science-savvy policymakers: read about how SN members have put their knowledge into action lately
- Join the conversation: Visit The Equation, the UCS blog, to find out what our experts are thinking on a broad range of science- and policy-related topics, and add your insights to the mix.
- Want to get involved, but not sure how to go about it? We have lots of field-tested tips and tools for science activists.
Science Network Success Spotlight
Ohio's Energy Efficiency Law (SB221)
Last fall, the UCS Science Network partnered with the Ohio Environmental Council and Environmental Law and Policy Center for a candidate outreach campaign about the benefits of clean energy and energy efficiency policies in Ohio. Ohio’s contested energy efficiency law (SB 221) was specifically highlighted as both scientifically sound and great for the state. The Science Network’s efforts paid off—despite continued pressure from clean energy opponents, SB 221 is still law.
The Science Network: Experts Making a Difference
Science Network members have joined UCS in taking on tough challenges, standing up against powerful interests—and winning concrete victories. Our unique combination of objective analysis and energetic advocacy has played a key role in recent successful battles over emissions regulations, political interference in government science, renewable electricity and fuel economy standards, and nuclear weapons.
Science Network member Cameron Wake collecting ice cores in Alaska's Denali Range.
Early Career Scientist Spotlight
AAAS 2013
During the 2013 AAAS Conference, we hosted a happy hour to bring together experts in non-traditional science careers with early career scientists to make connections and learn about tips for pursuing a career at the intersection of policy and science. The event featured a diverse set of experts—from physicists to fisheries biologists—sharing stories and advice with a packed room of early career scientists.
Are You an Early Career Scientist?
We offer opportunities to get involved and help advance your career path, networking events for people seeking science and policy careers, and trainings to build your strength as a science communicator and advocate.
How to Get Involved:
- Take our Early Career Scientist Survey to help us determine how best to include you in our efforts. The survey takes a few moments to fill out and will help us understand your needs and interests as you advance in your career.
- Become a Student Member of UCS at a special discounted rate. Student membership will allow you to engage with and learn from UCS scientists, as well as give you opportunities for networking and professional development. Student members have access to specialized trainings and workshops on a variety of topics to help you grow as a scientist and advocate. As a student member, you will also receive regular UCS publications such as Catalyst and Earthwise and discounts on others, like the book, A Scientist's Guide to Talking With the Media.
Tell a Colleague about UCS
If you know other scientists who might like to be involved in our work, here's an easy way to spread the word.
