2026 Science Policy Training Series

This training is open to KAS members at any point in your career, whether you're a student, graduate, or professional. This series offers background in how policy is made at the State level, and offers practical training and experience in researching and communicating scientific information to policymakers and to the public.

Participants will come away with knowledge about the legislative system in Kentucky, and science-related issues moving through the legislature. Participants will also develop skills in building relationships with legislators and translating relevant scientific research for use in public policy. At the end of the series, Participants will get to practice their skills in a visit with legislators at the state capitol.

You can register for individual sessions or the whole series. Participants who complete all sessions will receive a “Kentucky Science Policy” certificate and be well-equipped to participate in science policy advising.

Register Here

Tentative 2026 Course Schedule:
Friday, January 23 (12:00-1:00pm ET) - How the Kentucky legislature works, how to find information about legislation, how KAS staff and volunteers follow STEM-relevant bills

Friday January 30 (12:00-1:00pm ET) - Guest speaker introducing effective communications for science policy, + hear from a legislator, Participants choose a topic or bill to research and write about

Friday February 6 (12:00-1:30pm ET) - This is a 90 minute session on how to communicate science in an impactful one-pager, and drafting exercise

Friday February 13 (12:00-1:00pm ET) - Peer Feedback: Workshop / share drafts of your one-pagers with other participants

Friday February 20 (12:00-1:00pm ET) - Practice Your Pitches, Logistics & Expectations for Capitol Visit

Friday February 27- Capitol visit w final versions of one-pagers to share. More information about this event will be available closer to that date.

Locations: Zoom, with the exception of the Feb. 27 trip to the Capitol. If your circumstances prevent you from traveling to Frankfort, a Zoom option may be available for meetings with legislators.

Register Here

Contact: Please contact KAS Science Policy Specialist Austin McMasters (policy@kyscience.org)

Please note that participants are required to be KAS members. If you are not already a member, you can become a member here

Many academic institutions in Kentucky provide free memberships - to check if your institution is, please check this list.