The 21st Annual Coalition for National Science Funding (CNSF) Exhibition and Reception on Capitol Hill, “Investments in STEM Research and Education: Fueling American Innovation,” was held on April 29, 2015. Sociologists Laurel Smith-Doerr (University of Massachusetts-Amherst), Kathleen Tierney (University of Colorado-Boulder), and Nnenia Campbell (University of Colorado-Boulder, MFP cohort 41) presented their research at the event. Smith-Doerr’s research examined collaboration in the chemical sciences; how chemists work together to advance scientific discoveries. Tierney and Campbell presented their social science research on natural hazards like earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis. All three researchers spoke at length about their research with NSF Director France Cordova, NSF Social, Behavioral, and Economic (SBE) Directorate Assistant Director Fay Cook, SBE Division Director Jeryl Mumpower, and numerous congressional staff.
In addition to Smith-Doerr, Tierney, and Campbell’s research the exhibition highlighted 35 research and education projects made possible through funding by the National Science Foundation. This year’s exhibit was attended by congressional staff, representatives from the science community, and members of Congress.
Prior to the exhibition Smith-Doerr met with Representative Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). During these meetings she discussed the importance of sociological research, the need for NSF’s SBE Directorate, and her concerns regarding the recently introduced America COMPETES Act of 2015 (H.R. 1806).