Scientists and Engineers for America (SEA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, educational organization exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Our mission is to facilitate evidence-based decision making at all levels of government. Our programs include both a short-term focus on the 2008 national elections – through the SHARP Network – and a long-term focus on building a more engaged and politically active scientific community – through SEA Chapters and the Campaign Education and Training program. Click here to become a member of SEA and to sign up for our daily Science Policy News Alerts!
The SHARP Network
The SHARP (Science, Health and Related Policies) Network, www.SHARP.SEforA.org, is a wiki that tracks the science and health policy stances of all the members of Congress, the candidates for congressional office, and the Presidential candidates. Anyone who registers for the site can contribute information to a candidate’s SHARP profile. Features include a daily news blast, information on key congressional votes, and a clear display of politician’s stances on science and health issues. The SHARP Network is a unique tool through which the scientific community informs the public of the importance of science issues and brings a science debate to every federal race in 2008.
SEA Chapters
SEA Chapters provide a way for student and members of the scientific community to influence the interface between science and politics. These chapters develop the means for both current and future scientists and engineers to influence the policy arena, expand the forum through which SEA involves scientists and engineers in the political and civic process, and recruit additional SEA members. To date, SEA has chapters at
Campaign Education and Training Program
Part of SEA’s mission is also to train scientists and engineers to run for public office, from the school board to U.S. Congress. By increasing the representation of scientists, physicians, and engineers in our government, we amplify the voice of reason in American politics. SEA, in consortium with other scientific organizations, holds a yearly Campaign Education Workshop which seeks to teach scientists and engineers the nuts and bolts of running for office. In 2008, nearly 100 scientists, engineers, and students participated in the day-long workshop.
