Local Science Engagement Network Community

This month, let’s think about how researchers can communicate science in ways that resonate beyond academic spaces—especially with state lawmakers and local decision-makers. Strong policy communication is not just about presenting data; it’s about connecting research to community priorities, public needs, and real-world outcomes.

Across the AAAS community, members are exploring how to frame research stories more effectively for state and local policy audiences. These conversations are especially relevant within the Local Science Engagement Network (LSEN), where local engagement and evidence-based decision-making often intersect.

Whether the topic is public health, water systems, climate resilience, or education, how we communicate science can shape whether information is understood, trusted, and used.

Let’s continue the conversation:

• What state-level issue would you most like to communicate about?

• How do you make your research relevant to policymakers and community leaders?

• Explore the webinar highlights and share one takeaway.

#AAAS #LSEN #ScienceCommunication #SciencePolicy #PublicEngagement #EvidenceBasedPolicy

------------------------------
Paula Buchanan, ScD, MBA, MPH, CPH
------------------------------

I believe one of the most overlooked public health issues is the connection between oral health and systemic diseases.
Growing evidence suggests that the oral microbiome and oral inflammation may influence cardiovascular, autoimmune, metabolic, and neurological conditions. However, oral health remains largely separated from general healthcare policies.
Communicating these findings to policymakers could help promote prevention-oriented healthcare strategies, improve early disease detection, and potentially reduce long-term healthcare costs.
This is an area where scientific evidence can directly inform public health policy and decision-making.
Dr Abdeldjalil Zitouni, DDS

------------------------------
Abdeldjalil Zitouni
Constantine
------------------------------

For those of you working with community groups, schools, or even public officials, check out this resource. The Environmental Justice Chronicles is a graphic novel series to teach about environmental justice, street science, and community organizing.  We created this resource and provide it free online for any educational or nonprofit use.  Enjoy! 

------------------------------
rebecca bratspies
Oliver Houck Professor of Environmental Law
Tulane Law School
New Orleans NY
------------------------------