Events
4pm - 5pm EST
Engineers do not just build tools, they create systems of power through innovation and technological advancement. Developing these systems responsibly requires examining the consequences of engineering innovation and predicting how it will interact with society. Join us as Dr. Renee Marlin-Bennett discusses ethics, power, and governance in engineering through a lecture followed by a guided discussion and Q&A!
Blog posts
Interested in writing for the blog?
Interested in writing about science policy? You can contribute a blog on policy topics related to your research or any area of science policy that excites you. Our editors will support you throughout the process. If you’d like to get involved, submit a blog idea through the form!
January recap
MD Advocacy day
JHSPDG members traveled to Annapolis to meet with members of the Maryland General Assembly, advocating for two key policy initiatives. Yiguang Zhu led discussions in support of expanding alternatives to animal-based research through the disbursement of state-sponsored research grants. Natasha Ninan led a group advocating for regulations on the construction of AI data centers in Maryland.
The group had productive conversations with legislators and will continue following these issues. More advocacy efforts are planned in the coming weeks!
Additional opportunities
Grid Talks: Global Perspectives in Science Diplomacy
February 6, 2026
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm EST
The Science Diplomacy Grid is hosting a one hour virtual event where panelists will give brief flash talks on their work and how it intersects with science diplomacy.
One of the featured speakers is Brendon Davis, Ph.D. Candidate at Johns Hopkins University and President of the Science Policy and Diplomacy Group (SPDG). Be sure to check it out, along with his recent article titled “Building Science Diplomacy in Response to (and in Spite of) Policy”. Register for the event using this link!
British Embassy Visit and Workshop
9:45 am - 11:30 am EST
The Careers in Diplomacy Club will be hosting a visit to the British Embassy. The visit will include a guided tour and a Q&A-style rotation with four embassy staff members on Navigating Diplomacy and UK–US relations. Please come prepared with thoughtful questions for the panellists.
The last day to apply or withdraw from this visit is the 9th February and direct any questions to Flora Mitchell. Use the code “homewood” to register for the event. In addition, bring a valid photo ID.
ACS Maryland Cancer Action Day
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm EST
Annapolis, MD
The American Cancer Society's Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is looking for participants to join Maryland Cancer Action Day in Annapolis on Monday, February 9th, 4pm-8pm EST.
All are welcome to join Maryland Cancer Action Day! If you have research expertise in oncology, smoking, lung health, or other cancer-related science, you can apply your knowledge directly to conversations with legislators. Even if your areas of expertise are outside these fields, it is important for government officials to hear from all constituents who care about protecting cancer research!
Sign up for Cancer Action Day and contact Anja Aniere if you have any questions.
SNAP events at the AAAS annual meeting
February 12-14, 2026
Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, AZ
If you’re attending AAAS, be sure to check out events hosted by the Scientist Network for Advancing Policy (SNAP) Coalition. Founded by and for science trainees, SNAP builds capacity in science communication, advocacy, and public engagement. SNAP Members of SPDG will also be attending these events so keep an eye out for the events as slisted in the flyer. We look forward to seeing you in Phoenix!
Stance on science
Stance on Science, a SNAP initiative, is designed to ensure science informs political decision-making. The initiative sends candidates science policy-related questions and publicly shares their responses. By highlighting candidates’ views on science, Stance on Science aims to elevate science in political conversations and remind candidates that voters care about informed, evidence-based leadership. Sign up to be a state volunteer and help ensure science guides policy in the 2026 elections.
Emerging tech symposium
16 - 17 April, 2026
555 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC
The Emerging Tech Symposium, hosted by the Emerging Tech Initiative, brings together students, researchers, and innovators to explore cutting-edge developments across emerging technologies. Panels cover AI regulation, tech sovereignty, and the private sector’s role in driving innovation. Registration forms will go live in February.
AAAS Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) workshop
Washington, D.C.
The Doctoral Life Design Studio (DLDS) has opened applications for students to attend the AAAS Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop. The workshop will take place April 12–15, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Applications are due Friday, February 20, 2025, with selections announced by February 27.
Applicants must be full-time STEM students, and international students are eligible. Those who have previously received JHU sponsorship for CASE are not eligible. Selected participants must complete a required one-hour training before the workshop. DLDS will cover registration and daily transportation or parking costs, but overnight lodging is not provided. Only four spots are available, so apply as possible. Check out the application form for more details.