When federal research funding came under threat in early 2025, Yale graduate students chose action over anxiety. They quickly mobilized to advocate for science, sparking a grassroots movement that underscores a vital shift: researchers must not only produce knowledge but also communicate its value to society at large.
Mobilizing for Change
With agencies like the NIH and NSF facing potential cuts, students at Yale took decisive steps. They began by reaching out to senators, engaging with their communities at town halls, and writing op-eds for local newspapers. As MD/PhD candidate Stacy Uchendu put it, the group was united by a shared purpose: they wanted to turn concern into action.
What started as small efforts soon grew. Weekly “advocacy hours” allowed students to develop outreach strategies, practice op-ed writing, and create infographics that made complex science accessible. Members kept up regular contact with congressional offices, using local media to amplify their message nationwide.
Expanding Science Communication
The movement quickly spread beyond Yale’s campus. At a national conference, PhD student Alex Rich connected with fellow advocates who shared her commitment to proactive science communication. Together, they recognized the growing distrust of higher education and resolved to reach out directly to their own communities, bringing clarity and transparency to the research process.
- McClintock Letters: Named after Nobel laureate Barbara McClintock, this campaign empowers early-career scientists to write op-eds and fight science misinformation. Over 600 participants have published more than 200 pieces in 45 states.
- Scientist Network for Advancing Policy (SNAP): SNAP coordinated dozens of congressional visits, encouraging young scientists to engage with policymakers and local stakeholders during the summer recess.
By providing local economic data such as how every NIH dollar returns $2.56 to the community, these advocates made the significance of science funding tangible for both lawmakers and the public.
From Grassroots to National Impact
These local initiatives fueled broader national efforts. The new STEM on the Hill group brought advocacy directly to Washington, D.C., meeting lawmakers and discussing science policy. Students like Harsh Babla leveraged their expertise to influence legislation, such as the National Quantum Initiative, and illustrated how research investments foster innovation in areas like quantum computing.
Advocacy also helped students hone crucial communication skills. Babla, for example, describes quantum computing in relatable terms: “building LEGO blocks for a future quantum computer”. By breaking down complex ideas, scientists are able to reach non-experts and policymakers with clarity and impact.
The Value of Communication Skills
Yale Graduate School Dean Lynn Cooley emphasizes that a true mark of expertise is the ability to explain research to a general audience. She encourages students to practice sharing their work with friends, family, and the public, through op-eds, community events, or informal conversations. Cooley believes that, in today’s information-rich world, clear and accurate communication is essential for earning trust and demonstrating research’s societal value.
Programs like the McClintock Letters offer students a valuable opportunity to build these skills. As Dean Cooley notes, communication expertise is one of the most important assets scientists can develop, helping them advocate for their work and contribute to a more informed public.
Scientists as Advocates
Yale’s graduate students are showing that advocacy and communication are as crucial as research itself. By stepping beyond the lab to organize, advocate, and engage with the public, they are not only protecting the future of science funding but also fostering a society that understands and values scientific discovery.
How Yale Graduate Students Are Leading the Charge for Science Communication