Science Policy Training

Graduate and professional students, postdoctoral fellows, employees and administrators at University of Idaho, Boise State University and Idaho State University, as well as those interested from governments and businesses and other state science policy fellows, are invited to participate in the ISTPF. This engagement will cultivate opportunities to learn about science policy, enhance technical skills through ISTPF orientation and professional development seminars and expand science policy networks. 

Professional Development Seminars

ISTP fellows are required to participate in monthly professional development seminars. Most professional development seminars are open to broader audiences. Seminar topics have included benefit-cost analysis, science policy communication and post-fellowship career trajectories. For questions, please email istpf@uidaho.edu.

ISTPF Orientation

Idaho Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (ISTPF) orientation is held the week before Labor Day. Orientation brings together local and national experts in science policy, government, law and more. It is an opportunity to learn about science policy, the history of science and technology policy in the U.S., how science policy works in federal and state government, public policy analysis, the three branches of government in Idaho, science policy communications and more. Elements of the five-day orientation are often offered online.  

Aug. 25 – 29, 2025 Schedule and Registration

Orientation Week Science Policy Trainings

Open to the Public

Monday, Aug. 25, 2025

1:30-4 p.m. MDT
Science and Technology Policy - History and Organization

Dr. Anna Quider, Principal, The Quider Group.

Overview of the history, organization, and uses of science and technology policy in the United States, including the role of the White House, Congress, and federal agencies, as well as connection to Idaho.

Registration required: https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/f77UCk7VQ96LGKWHWF8Zog

Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025

8:30-10 a.m. MDT
Idaho’s Political History

Dr. Sarah Robey, Associate Professor of History, Idaho State University and Dr. Stephanie Witt, Professor, Public Policy & Administration and Professor, Political Science, School of Public Service, Boise State University.

Introduction to Idaho’s geography and development, connecting to politics in Idaho from the historical perspective, touching on the three branches of government, important influencers, pivotal moments, local-state/state-federal dynamics, and more.

Registration required: https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/jkGrJhOOTTKn7Qf2n4X1_A

Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025

10:30-11:45 a.m. MDT
Panel—Political Savviness

Current and alumni state and federal science and technology policy fellows.

Transitioning from your lab or office to an agency office may be a culture shift. Hear insights in how to navigate agency and government structures, understand quickly the policy process, ask for help in your new environment, and office and agency life.

Registration required: https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/PoyCYJN0S52PHrkopdzugg

3:00-4:15 p.m. MDT
Panel—Technology Policy

Panelists in the field of technology policy.

Presentations and discussion on pressing and emerging topics in technology policy.

Registration required: https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/sAYPGWmeR6OjbgZduJ-LrA

Friday, August 29, 2025

10:30-11:45 a.m. MDT
Panel – How to Successfully Brief

Current and alumni state and federal science and technology policy fellows.

How do you successfully write talking points for yourself and others? What does it mean to brief your boss? How does an oral briefing connect to a written brief? Learn insights and best practices.

Registration required: https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/r-nr4MGkTsi7mh6qrFCl-A