Derek Thiesen, PhD, a postdoctoral research associate in the Schreiber Lab, was selected for The American Association of Immunologists (AAI) Public Policy Fellows Program (PPFP). The program gives early-career researchers the opportunity to learn about and participate in public policy and legislative activities related to science and public health, the organization said on its website.
“I am thrilled to be part of the AAI Public Policy Fellows Program for 2023-2024. Advocating for improved resources for research is important not just to further medical and scientific progress, but to also improve the quality of life of scientists and ensure continued recruitment of talented researchers. The financial and quality of life sacrifices required to pursue scientific careers has put us at risk of losing talented and creative minds of the future and perpetuates disparities in who can access these roles,” Dr. Thiesen said. “As an AAI Public Policy Fellow, I hope to learn how to advocate for ways to make scientific careers more accessible and attractive to future trainees on a larger scale so that we can ensure continued growth towards a more diverse field of scientists equipped with everything they need to tackle the evolving public health and research landscapes.”
