Katie Ellison, Ph.D., RDN, LDN, received the Science for Public Good Fund Award on behalf of the Science Policy Advocacy Network at UAB.Katie Ellison, Ph.D., RDN, LDN, a postdoctoral scholar in the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine, recently received the Science for Public Good Fund Award from the Union of Concerned Scientists on behalf of the Science Policy Advocacy Network (SPAN) at UAB, where she serves as treasurer. The award funding supports activities and events that highlight the role of science in informing public policy, with a focus on understanding and addressing local impacts.
Using this award, SPAN is partnering with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network to support activities at March’s inaugural Research Symposium at Cancer Action Day.
“Receiving the Science for Public Good Fund award is an incredible honor for our team in the Science Policy Advocacy Network at UAB,” Ellison said. “This support allows us to expand opportunities for trainees and scientists to directly engage with policymakers on issues that impact cancer research and public health in Alabama. We’re excited to partner with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network to host the Research Symposium at Cancer Action Day and help strengthen connections between science and policy in our state.”
The free symposium will be held in Montgomery, Ala., on March 31 and offers trainees and investigators an opportunity to present in front of state officials, cancer patients, and other advocates. Those interested in presenting their biomedical or cancer research — or attending to meet with officials — can register for the event at act.fightcancer.org/a/symposium.
Members of SPAN connect with the community at Pepper Place Market. Photo courtesy of SPANThis statewide symposium will feature a poster session, panel discussion, and 'Three-Minute Thesis'-style lightning talks, highlighting the breadth of cancer research and biomedical innovation taking place across the state. By bringing together the community to share and celebrate the scientific advancements underway in Alabama, the Cancer Action Network hopes to elevate the impact of cancer research beyond the laboratory.
SPAN will also host webinars throughout March offering training on science communication for policymakers.
A student-led organization, SPAN works to promote civic engagement among UAB students, cultivate resources for science communication, and provide career development for trainees in science policy advocacy. The group hosts a variety of policy, advocacy, and communication professionals at their events.