Advocacy Opportunities for UCSF Trainees

UCSF Government Relations sponsors two opportunities every year for professional students, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars to learn about and directly engage in science policy advocacy.

Rally for Medical Research

September 17-18, 2025

Every September, a broad coalition of groups representing the medical research advocacy community meet with House and Senate offices in Washington, DC to urge members of Congress to make funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) a national priority. UCSF sponsors two students to participate. 

Apply by July 25

AAAS Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop

April 2026

The CASE workshop is an exciting opportunity to learn from science policy and advocacy experts about the role of science in policymaking and the federal policy-making process. UCSF sends two learners every year to develop skills to become a voice for research throughout their careers.

Jayson Davidson and Grace Hu at US Capitol
UCSF trainees Grace Hu and Jaysón Davidson met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill as part of the Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop.
UCSF Advocates

Join UCSF Advocates

Now more than ever, it is critical that #UCSFStandsUp and speaks out to help shape local, state, and federal policies that promote our core mission of healthcare, scientific research, education, and public service.

Join us to find opportunities to connect with local, state, and federal lawmakers, participate in advocacy events and trainings, and receive our newsletter with actions you can take to advocate for policy change.

Become a UCSF Advocate

Take Action

You don't have to be an official UCSF Advocate to join us. Here are some of our key initiatives. See all current advocacy efforts

 

 

People on a cable car.

UCSF Votes

You are the Difference. VOTE.

UCSF is committed to encouraging civic participation throughout our campus and community. Voting is how you make your voice count.

Learn How

Advocacy Guidelines

UCSF’s research and advocacy plays an important role in shaping public policy. However, as a 501(c)(3) and a state entity, there are legal restrictions on the types of political activities UCSF employees can engage in on behalf of UCSF. Follow these guidelines to be successful when advocating in your UCSF and person capacities.

Read more about the guidelines

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UC Advocacy Network

UCSF also is part of the UC Advocacy Network, which engages community members to help highlight the impact of UC's contributions to government officials and policymakers in Sacramento and Washington D.C. Stay informed about issues relevant to the UC system.

Sign up for UCAN and take action for UC