WHY MASSACHUSETTS NEEDS MASTPF
Massachusetts has long been a global leader in scientific research and innovation. Yet, as challenges like climate change, public health crises, and rapidly evolving technologies grow, our Commonwealth lacks a formal infrastructure to connect scientific expertise with state policymaking. This gap hampers our ability to craft effective, evidence-based solutions and weakens our position as a leader in innovative public policy. To address these challenges, SCi is developing the Massachusetts Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (MASTPF) with the support of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).
ABOUT MASTPF
The Massachusetts Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (MASTPF) closes the gap between science and policy by embedding STEM PhDs as full-time, nonpartisan policy advisors in the Massachusetts State House. These fellows will provide critical scientific insights, ensuring our legislators are equipped to address today’s most pressing issues. By leveraging Massachusetts’ unmatched academic talent, MASTPF will advance equitable, forward-thinking policies that improve the lives of residents statewide.
OUR PROVEN MODEL
MASTPF builds on SCi’s previous fellowship efforts and takes inspiration from similar fellowship across the country. While based at Harvard, SCi developed a part-time summer fellowship program for STEM graduate students, placing 14 fellows in 10 legislative offices since 2019. This program contributed to impactful policy initiatives like the Ocean Acidification report, which led to the OCEAN Act and Blue Communities Act. We are now expanding that foundation to establish MASTPF as a full-time, statewide initiative.
YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS
SCi is part of a growing national movement to embed scientific expertise in state governments. The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation recently awarded a grant to the Pew Charitable Trusts to create matching funds that will expand state and territorial science policy fellowships nationwide. This matching fund will support up to 18 programs to launch a three-year fellowship with four fellows per year. SCi’s leadership positions the Commonwealth to leverage national matching funds and to become a leader in connecting science and governance at the state level.