At the AAAS Annual Meeting, one theme that continues to stand out is how policy innovation depends on science at scale; not just generating knowledge, but translating it into evidence-based decisions that work across communities.
Across conversations, there is a clear emphasis on strengthening the connection between research, policy, and practice. Scaling science for policy means ensuring that data, local insights, and lived experiences are not only included, but actively shape decision-making processes at regional and national levels. It also requires collaboration, bringing scientists, community partners, and policymakers into shared spaces where knowledge can move more effectively across sectors.
Through the Local Science Engagement Network (LSEN), we are uniquely positioned to support this work by fostering connections that make science more accessible, relevant, and actionable.
So, what are your thoughts:
How have you seen science inform policy in your community? Where are there gaps—and opportunities—to better scale evidence into action?
Let’s continue building pathways from knowledge to impact.
#SciencePolicy
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Paula Buchanan, ScD, MBA, MPH, CPH Dsc.;MPH
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