The Science Policy and Diplomacy Group at Johns Hopkins (SPDG) is looking for highly motivated and independent graduate students interested in science policy and diplomacy issues. SPDG is focused on advocating for data-driven science policy and diplomacy initiatives as well as connecting current graduate students with these issues and related career resources.

We invite you to apply to our Leadership Board for the 2026-27 term. The positions available are Science Policy Coordinator, Science Diplomacy Coordinator, and Science Communication Chair. There are multiple openings available for each position. No science policy/diplomacy/communication experience is required. This is a great opportunity to get involved and be part of important conversations about how science is governed and communicated at the university, state, federal, and international levels.

Apply here! The application deadline is July 17th, 2026. Further details about time commitment and responsibilities can be found on the application form.

Email Andrew Mattson at amattso1@jhu.edu if you have any questions! We would be happy to discuss the positions and responsibilities further over email, Zoom, or in-person if that would be helpful. 

Applicants will be screened and invited for brief, virtual interviews in July and August.

OMB-2026-0034 public comments deadline

The proposed OMB draft rule (OMB-2026-0034) aims to expand federal oversight in the grant review process through additional disclosure requirements and payment justifications. One effective way to influence policy proposals such as this is by submitting a public comment, especially since the OMB is required to consider comments during the rulemaking process.

The deadline for public comments on the OMB’s Federal Financial Assistance Rule is July 13, 2026, at 11:59 pm EDT. For a more detailed guide to public comments, check out Dr. Ginexi’s recent article.

The EU Delegation in Washington, D.C. represents and promotes the interests and values of the European Union in the United States. This includes presenting and explaining EU policies and actions to the different branches and levels of the U.S. Administration, Congress, and across the country, as well as promoting EU-U.S. cooperation in all fields. This work is done in close coordination with the Embassies of the 27 EU Member States.

The Science Policy and Diplomacy Group will be traveling to the delegation to learn about the EU's efforts in science diplomacy and science in general. Spots are limited for this event, so sign up quickly! Students will only be responsible for transport costs (approx. $15 round trip for Baltimore to DC MARC train and DC metro, discounted tickets for students available here). Register to attend by June 16 at 5pm EDT via this link.