Emily A. Hemann, Ph.D., University of Washington
I am excited to be selected as an AAI Public Policy Fellow for 2018-2019. I am enthusiastic about learning how to effectively engage with our elected officials to convey the importance of, and advocate for, predictable and sustained funding for biomedical research. A number of recent public health infectious disease concerns, including less than desired protection from the most recent influenza vaccine, demonstrate the need for continued funding of basic scientific research to improve upon our current vaccination strategies. Communication between immunologists working in this area and policymakers is important to highlight the necessity of public funding for biomedical research. I am grateful to AAI for the opportunity to participate in this program. I look forward to increasing my understanding of how science policy decisions are made so that I can better serve as an advocate for biomedical research throughout my scientific career.

Gavin H. Imperato, M.D., Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
I am honored to have been selected to participate in the AAI Public Policy Fellows Program. Biomedical research has enabled the development of treatments, diagnostic modalities, and prevention strategies that have positively affected the lives of millions of people. Breakthroughs in science now occur at an unparalleled pace, but their benefit to humanity can only be fully realized with policies that embrace a fundamental spirit of progress. “Science is a proper concern of government,” wrote Vannevar Bush in “Science, The Endless Frontier,” in 1945. His words are as true today as ever. Without adequate support, biomedical research cannot thrive. I am optimistic that, with a commitment to communication, mutual understanding, and cooperation, we will accomplish the most challenging and worthwhile humanitarian goals of science.

Jesica R. Jacobs, Ph.D., University of Utah School of Medicine
It is an absolute privilege to have been selected to participate in the AAI Public Policy Fellows Program. It is so vital that scientists and policymakers are able to have a free and productive dialogue about funding our nation’s crucial biomedical research, and I am ecstatic about having the opportunity to participate. This AAI program helps ensure that scientists understand the process of scientific policymaking at the legislative level, helping us secure a bright financial future for science. I’m excited to observe and form relationships on Capitol Hill that may contribute to a great rapport between immunologists and government officials, and to help bring a strong voice from our scientific community. Thank you to AAI for allowing me to be part of this unique experience. I can’t wait to get started.

Liz McMichael, Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center
I’m extremely excited and honored to be selected as an AAI Public Policy Fellow for 2018-2019. Our current political climate, including rhetoric that is both pro- and anti-science based, allows for the general public to form misconceptions about the positive impact research can have. This opportunity will allow me to learn how to best advocate for funding for research programs that are vitally important to training the next generation of scientists. I look forward to working with the other Fellows and the AAI team to learn how best to work with legislators to bridge the gap between our government and basic science.

Mallory L. Paynich, Ph.D., La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology
I am grateful and honored to be selected as an AAI Public Policy Fellow for 2018-2019. This fellowship will provide an invaluable opportunity to learn the dynamics of how funding decisions are made, and how we, as scientists, can communicate the tremendous impact of immunology research in treating human disease. It is of the utmost importance that the scientific community has the training, resources, and funding necessary to continue its vital role in advancing human health. As young scientists, we must learn how to advocate for science education and continued investment in biomedical research, and it is our responsibility to inform the public of the crucial benefits of this research. I look forward to this experience with AAI to gain insight on issues pertaining to biomedical research and communication among scientists, politicians, and the public.

Gregory Szeto, Ph.D., University of Maryland Baltimore County
I am excited to be selected by AAI as a Public Policy Fellow. These are tumultuous times for the scientific community, with challenges that are our responsibility to meet and drive towards positive resolution. The issues include not only the obvious ties between federal funding and the research enterprise, but also how science is interpreted and used to inform policy, the nature of science communication in an increasingly complex media landscape, and the perception of science by government and society. I particularly hope to gain deeper insight into how arms of government interact to craft policy that directs national funding and research priorities, to add to the collective voices of early career scientists, and to identify ways I can help create and support a diverse scientific workforce and inclusive environment for current trainees. It is a core responsibility of all scientists to advocate for science. The knowledge and experience I acquire from the PPFP will be translated into sustained regional and national advocacy for the rest of my career.

Stina L. Urban, Ph.D., University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
I am thrilled to have been selected as one of the 2018-2019 AAI Public Policy Fellows. Given the current political climate in the U.S. and the amount of anti-science propaganda displayed on the news and social media, we need science advocates now more than ever. I am eager to learn about the science policy decision-making process that occurs in Washington and to work with the other Fellows to become a strong advocate for immunology research. Importantly, I hope to use the insights gained through this program to promote diversity and equality in the workplace and to advocate for female scientists.

Melody Y. Zeng, Ph.D., University of Michigan Medical School
I am thrilled and honored to be selected as an AAI Public Policy Follow. My visits to Flint, Michigan, after the water crisis a few years ago were an unforgettable experience that has tremendously heightened my sense of responsibility as a citizen and as a scientist. Because bad public policy could affect generations to come, I believe that scientists must – in addition to producing scientific evidence to develop and advance therapeutics for diseases – get involved in broader policymaking. We should communicate with the public about our work, and promote awareness of key issues, ranging from disease prevention to better working conditions and training for the next generation of scientists. Participation in the PPFP will be a unique educational experience that will teach me how science policy is shaped at the federal level, and how we, as scientists, can get involved and advocate for causes that are important to our field. I know this invaluable experience will also motivate me to be a better scientist and inspire my research. I thank the AAI for this incredible opportunity.