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.
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.
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.
Take Action
You don't have to be an official UCSF Advocate to join us. Here are some of our key initiatives.
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.
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.
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.