The value of science to impact public health is largely untapped. While bemoaned by most researchers, the gap between research findings and evidence-informed policymaking must be actively addressed. This action requires researchers to engage the political process in ways that enrich the use of science in policy and practice decision-making.

The Rochester Stress Resilience Center is hosting a half-day training by policy translation experts from TrestleLink—an emerging LLC led by academic researchers who have developed and honed the empirically supported Research-to-Policy Collaboration model of policy engagement.  The training is presented free of charge, CEUs are offered, and participants will be formally certified as TrestleLink Science Policy Practitioners.

Tailored for researchers, trainees, academic and public health administrators, and public policy experts, the training:

• details how research can be used effectively to inform public policy
• provides examples of how researchers can engage in the political process
• teaches the difference between lobbying and advocating through objective science
• guides scientists in developing strategies for communicating their work to policymakers and practice professionals
• provides tools to craft effective ‘policy implications/relevance’ in manuscripts and grants
• increases awareness of pressing policy issues for which science has direct relevance
• provides practice ‘mock’ sessions for developing and delivering succinct and bipartisan messaging
• outlines tools for research synthesis and translation for use in fact-sheets, policy briefs, and briefings/testimony
• guides administrators on how to encourage, reward, and support policy engagement of faculty  

----------

University of Rochester Medical Center, Center for Experiential Learning is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0005.