October 06, 2021
Media contact:
Jason Papagan
Manager of Communications
Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society
jpapagan@sigmaxi.org
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.—Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society, in partnership with the Rita Allen Foundation, welcomes Andrew N. George, PhD in the new role of Civic Science Fellow. The new position will investigate the needs and priorities of scientists and policymakers at the state level and determine the skills and knowledge required by scientists to successfully engage with the public policy process.
The Civic Science Fellowship program seeks to broaden engagement with science and research to inform policies and solutions for societal challenges. In this role, George will work with the Sigma Xi leadership team to develop a platform that provides empirical evidence, guidance, and resources to help scientists gain a better understanding of the policy process and successfully engage in policymaking.
Since 2018, George has served as a senior consultant, followed by Executive Vice President of Strategy for Thrivner, Inc., a strategy and program development company. George holds a PhD in biology from Duke University and a bachelor's degree in zoology from Michigan State University. He is also a 2014 grant recipient of Sigma Xi's Grants in Aid of Research (GIAR) program.
“North Carolina holds a special place in my heart," said George. "It is where I went to graduate school, bought my first home, got my first job, and married my amazing wife. I am excited for the opportunity to advance Sigma Xi's goal of enhancing the role of science in public policy.”
“We are thrilled to announce that Andrew will be working on this important project at Sigma Xi,” said Jamie Vernon, Sigma Xi executive director and CEO. “His familiarity with the North Carolina science policy community, especially through his previous role in the establishment of the North Carolina STEM policy fellowship, will bring value and insight to the fellowship.”
As the Sigma Xi Civic Science Fellow, George will join a national network of Fellows from diverse backgrounds working on a variety of multidisciplinary projects. The Fellows will cultivate a culture of civic science where scientists are engaged with local communities while fostering their connections with policymakers.
“We intend for this project to help scientists apply their expertise in state-level policymaking, leading to science-informed policies that improve lives,” said Vernon.