Become a Member
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Become a member of FOSEP
Who are we?
FOSEP is a multidisciplinary organization founded and directed by University of Washington graduate students and postdoctoral fellows with shared interest in learning more about the intersection of science and society. Our mission is to increase dialogue about the role of science in society both within the academic community and between scientists and the public. In addition to maintaining this website, we plan large public forums, academic seminars on campus, and small issue-oriented discussion groups and community outreach programs that cover topics as far ranging as science itself. We are hosted by the Office of Research at the University of Washington and supported by numerous departments and programs at UW and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.
What is a FOSEP general member?
FOSEP is currently organized into committees that oversee planning of our ongoing regular events. We have created a new membership category - general member - to welcome any student or postdoctoral fellow who is interested in science in society/science policy/science ethics to join FOSEP in a flexible capacity. We will look to our members for help in planning or to offer ideas for new or regular events. Vacancies on our planning committees will be filled by FOSEP general members.
Who is eligible to become a FOSEP general member?
University of Washington students (graduate, professional, and undergraduate) and postdoctoral fellows (at UW or affiliated institutions such as the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center). Scholars from all fields are welcome. Currently, a majority of our members are natural scientists. Thus, we are particularly excited to welcome members from underrepresented fields in the physical, social sciences, and humanities.
What opportunities are available to FOSEP general members?
Those of us that have been a part of FOSEP for a while have realized that intangible benefits of FOSEP membership include interdisciplinary education and interaction, camaraderie with other citizen scientists, and the sense that our events help both the scientific community and the public. Other tangible opportunities include:
- Attend FOSEP events - In addition to large FOSEP events, we will invite you to attend small members-only discussion groups, social events, and quarterly business meetings.
- Professional development opportunities - We provide many opportunities to develop skills in leadership, communication, management, and more. No matter what direction your professional life may turn, we are sure that these skills will come in handy!
- Networking opportunities - We invite our members to meet visiting speakers and community and university leaders.
- Community outreach - We have opportunities for scientists and others to speak with community groups, policy makers, teachers, and students.
- Assist with FOSEP events - We will look to our members for topic ideas, connections with local and national experts, and help with event-related tasks.
- Plan special events - We will occasionally ask for volunteers to participate in special project groups that might address a certain issue or plan a special event.
- Share your knowledge and explore your interests - FOSEP members are encouraged to participate in both live discussions and our online discussion boards. We also invite you to lead an informal discussion or invite an expert to lead a FOSEP discussion on a topic of particular interest to you. Finally, we encourage members to create a web topic page that presents which will be featured on our website. (No web design experience required!)
What responsibilities do you have as a FOSEP general member?
None, really! We hope that you will attend FOSEP events, spread the word about FOSEP in your department, and volunteer some of your time or expertise to special projects as you are able.
If you are interested in joining FOSEP, please complete the following information for our membership database. You will receive periodic emails from FOSEP to notify you of events and opportunities.
