Weekly Advocacy News Roundup

Greece Gets Its First Science Agency

July 18, 2016 | The Scientist

The Greek government announced they will establish a science funding agency called the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation. The foundation will be heavily funded by a loan from the European Investment Bank, and will accept grant applications from researchers and will fund fellowships for young scientists. 

• Find information about global advocacy programs at SfN.org.

Young Researchers Win NIH Grants at Rates Similar to Their Elders

July 18, 2016 | Science

A recent study shows that young researchers between the ages of 35 and 39 are about as likely to get NIH funding as their elders. This finding is in contrast to the common impression that older scientists have greater success than younger scientists in receiving NIH funding. The study examines funding success rates in several age groups, and examines evidence of and policy implications of an aging research workforce.

• Read about neuroscience funding through NIH at SfN.org.

Universities Want Funding Clarity on Brexit and Fees

July 18, 2016 | BBC

In the aftermath of the UK’s exit from the European Union, universities have many remaining questions about the impact on university staff from EU countries, potential tuition increases, and if funds will be available to help if EU research funding is not available. Universities and researchers were vocal supporters of remaining in the EU due to potential loss of funds and collaboration on international research projects.

• Learn more about neuroscience funding in the UK at SfN.org.

New Map of the Brain Redraws the Boundaries of Neuroscience

July 20, 2016 | Wired

A team of researchers published a new map of the brain, including characterizations of 97 new cortical areas. Maps of the brain provide useful reference points for researchers to use to agree on what areas they are examining, and it is important that they be updated as better data become available.

• Watch webinars on scientific rigor and reproducibility at Neuronline.

Zika Data From the Lab, and Right to the Web

July 18, 2016 | The New York Times

Researchers studying Zika in rhesus monkeys are posting data and results to the web for anyone to see in an effort to speed up research on the virus. While this has led to criticism from animal rights activists, researchers applaud the move towards openness. 

• Learn more about Zika and the brain at BrainFacts.org.

Brain Research Funding: U.S. Must Keep Momentum Going

July 20, 2016 | The San Diego Union Tribune

SfN President Hollis Cline discusses the importance of all federally funded research and the promise current neuroscience research holds for the health of people around the world.  Cline also highlights the BRAIN Initiative and its potential to help neuroscientists dramatically reshape the understanding of brain health and disease through a partnership of private and public entities. 

• Join the Advocacy Network to stay informed on issues related to neuroscience research at SfN.org.

Students Must Advocate for Education

July 18, 2016 | Courier Journal

SfN Early Career Policy Ambassador Naomi Charalambakis discusses the importance of advocating for federal science funding and education funding. She discusses how it is vital that students stay engaged with state and national lawmakers so research can continue to progress and so the public can benefit from these advances.

• Find science funding resources at SfN.org.