Q&A Science Policy Society Treasurer and Science on Tap Co-Chair

Emilee Fortier, the Science Policy Society (SPS) Treasurer and Science on Tap Committee Co-Chair recently shared with us her experiences in Science Policy. Emilee is also a materials science and engineering graduate student. On January 24, 2024, SPS will host its second annual Science Policy Society Symposium featuring talks covering topics in science policy relevant to academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Registration is now open for this symposium. Additionally, on January 25, 2024, and February 29, 2024, SPS will have Science on Tap events on International Climate Activism and Acoustics. 

Q: What is your research area? 

EF: I study novel wurtzite tetrahedral ferroelectrics to improve the energy efficiency of electronic memory devices.

Q: Why did you join the Science Policy Society?

EF: I joined SPS because it felt like the right place to be. In starting grad school, it was important to me to find opportunities to learn about and contribute to "bigger picture" conversations. My first impression of SPS was that it was efficient and intentional in its programming in a way that made me feel like my involvement would be valued and impactful. It was a pretty accurate impression. 
 

Q: What is your favorite part of the Science Policy Society?

EF: My favorite part of SPS has been the opportunity to tailor my experience. I enjoy benchwork too much to have a science policy career, but in developing the confidence and awareness to navigate SciPol and SciComm spaces, I'm able to more readily participate in conversations and opportunities regarding my interests. I'm a co-chair for Science on Tap and have gotten to meet so many cool speakers and interest groups through it. The Chips and Science Act that passed last year is highly relevant to my research and through SPS, I've gotten to talk to a lot of different people and entities about its implementation.