The ASBMB works diligently to ensure that researchers' voices are heard so that funding and policy needs are met.
Life science research produces innumerable and invaluable benefits for humanity. We owe a debt of gratitude to the researchers whose hard work and creativity have yielded therapies and technologies that have improved lives and fueled economies.
The ASBMB works to ensure that researchers’ voices are heard in Congress and at federal funding agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Throughout the year, the ASBMB ensures that our members engage with policymakers to advocate for biomedical science funding.
The ASBMB's advocacy activities are supported by the Public Affairs Advisory Committee.
The ASBMB's policy positions
Advocate for sustainable, predictable and increased funding for scientific research. Learn more
Support the next generation of scientists. Learn more
Increase diversity, equity, access and inclusivity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Learn more
Address emerging science related issues e.g. research security, international collaboration, pandemic preparedness, workforce recovery etc. Learn more
Interview
‘Our work is about science transforming people’s lives’
Ann West, chair of the ASBMB Public Affairs Advisory Committee, sits down with Monica Bertagnolli, director of the National Institutes of Health.
Three senior figures at the US National Institutes of Health explain why the agency remains committed to supporting basic science and research.
The agency must continue to prioritize investigator-initiated, curiosity-driven basic research, society says.
The National Institutes of Health takes steps toward addressing concerns about support caps, a funding mechanism and professional development.
From educational gag orders to the decline of tenure-track positions, academic freedom in the United States has been worsening in recent years.
The 2018 program to counter economic espionage raised fears about anti-Asian discrimination and discouraged researchers.
Resource guides & issue briefs
National Institutes of Health Diversity Supplements: Pathway to Independence
This issue brief analyzes the unique attributes of each NIH diversity supplement program. Download
Quick guide to the 2023 NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy
A new policy issued by the National Institutes of Health requires a data-management and -sharing plan when submitting extramural grant applications. Review the basics of the plan and whether it applies to you in our quick guide. Download
Rights and resources for STEM parents
This guide aims to connect future, expecting or current parents in STEM careers with information on how to navigate family planning and childcare in academia. Within are links to curated resources about your rights, relevant labor policies, groups that support parents/parenting policies, safety guidance during pregnancy and more. Download
LGBTQIA+ resource guide
This guide provides resources for scientists to seeking to participate in LGBTQIA+ advocacy. What’s inside: a link to the ASBMB state and local advocacy toolkit, resources for allies aiming to learn methods for creating inclusive environments for their peers and mentees, and links to LGBTQIA+ organizations. Download
Advocacy newsletter
Enter your email address to sign up for monthly updates from the ASBMB Public Affairs team.
Webinars
Finding the funds
Monthly webinars connecting ASBMB members with the unique funding opportunities available to them as BMB scientists.
From the bench to the ballot: Stories from scientists who have run for office
This session aims to demystify the path from the bench to the ballot by highlighting the experiences of biochemists and molecular biologists serving in office at various levels. They discuss their career trajectories, their experience running for and serving in office and how they use their scientific background in office. More
Get involved
Advocacy toolkit
Best practices for sharing your stories with the policymakers whose decisions affect your work.
Capitol Hill Day
A program that brings trainees from across the country to meet with their congressional leaders in Washington, D.C.
Advocacy Training Program
A three-month externship that provides the skills to create change and to become a leader for those seeking to do the same.
Advocate at the state level
Learn how to conduct a successful advocacy campaign in your state.