How Can a Neuroscientist Work in Policy?

Reprinted from an article written by SPG’s Zoe Guttman & Yuki Hebner for Knowing Neurons

For the first time in U.S. history, the science advisor to the president has been elevated to a cabinet-level position. While this move was perhaps precipitated by the scientific nature of global concerns like the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, we welcome this increased engagement of scientists into the decision-making process.

The relevance of a scientific perspective on societal problems isn’t always obvious, but scientists can provide tangible insights into societal challenges beyond therapeutic and physiological applications, from racial inequities to the addiction crisis to environmental justice. For example, disseminating our knowledge of adolescent brain development can help advocate against punitive juvenile incarceration policies, and emphasizing the detrimental mental health-effects of “heat islands” could inform more equitable urban planning and help counter environmental racism.

In our new column Neuropolitics & Society, we will consider some of the many ways in which science can shape policy, as well as the political and social implications of emerging scientific research. Many of us entered our respective scientific fields to better society – whether through researching degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, or trying to increase our understanding of cognition, memory, and decision-making. The ability to use our scientific training to engage in discourse outside of research settings to affect real social change should be accessible to all scientists who are interested. The goal of this column is to spark interest, provide tools, and open up dialogue on societal issues adjacent to our research and across neuroscience.

Our first article will focus on how a neuroscientist (or any scientist!) can engage with policy or the government. We interviewed three professionals working in different areas of policy to get a range of perspectives on how you can get involved and possible roles you can pursue.