Most importantly, thank your Representative and Senators for their support. Scientists should not take federal support for granted, as it is a privilege to conduct research with the public’s support. Our Poster Session is a way of communicating our thanks, and sharing our knowledge with the public via our elected representatives and their aides.

• Federal investment in science, mathematics and engineering becomes more vital to the future of America every day. Explain the relevance of your own research --- how it addresses fundamental issues of science, or how it may address a problem of interest to society.
• Federal investment in science, mathematics, and engineering has a profound impact on local communities all across America. Personalize this message by giving examples from your college and community. Tell your Representatives about the federally funded components of your research. They will want to hear about the impact on people in their own district.
• Students learn science by doing science. You may want to talk about how your research experience has affected your career decisions; your intellectual maturity; your learning, and your desire to pursue further study in your field. Hands-on scientific study goes beyond what can be done by computer simulation, by distance learning, or traditional lectures
• Research and education are indivisible. Some policymakers wonder about the value of faculty members spending time in a lab rather than in a formal classroom where they can reach a large number of students. You may want to discuss the effect that a research-active faculty member has had on you

Special points to be used according to your own particular circumstances:

• Specifically mention any federally funded grants you or your institution have received in the last year.  Note the funding agency, the amount of the grant, and the grant activity.  Thank the Representative or Senator and provide any information you can about the impact of the grant on your campus.  You can find out about grants received from the sponsored research officer on your campus or the development office.
• Science and technology partnerships between government, colleges and universities, and local industries provide opportunities for young people to enter science and technology fields. Your Representatives would like to hear how federal support has leveraged local industry or community financial support for research at your institution, through direct matching funds or through tax incentives. Ask your institution if this applies in your case.
• Federal laboratories are a wonderful opportunity for internships and summer research experiences by undergraduates. CUR is urging Congress to make better use of national laboratories and federal agency labs by increasing their programs for undergraduate research. If you have had experiences in any of these settings, tell your Representative about them.
• We appreciate the major role that the National Science Foundation has played in supporting undergraduate research, and we thank Congress for its support of NSF. You may have been funded by special programs at the National Science Foundation such as Research Experiences for Undergraduates or Research at Undergraduate Institutions. If so, be sure to mention it.
• Special issue that could come up in conversation with Representatives or their staff: Hands-on scientific study goes beyond what can be done by computer simulation, by distance learning, or traditional lectures. Note that some policy makers think that distance learning and computer simulations can substitute for laboratory experiences and hands-on science. From your experience, you may want to comment on this issue, especially if your Representative or a staffer mentions it.

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