The seminar topic for the 2008-2009 grant year is “Science and Society: The Impact of Science on Policy Formation”. The program will begin in Berlin and include visits to other cities in Germany, and will focus on the formation of policies in current issues at the core of modern society such as climate change, food technology, gene technology, stem cell research and the broad scope of education. The seminar will explore how Germany and its European neighbors view the role of science in their societies, examining the factors that result in differing approaches to these issues and the challenges of harmonizing different standards under a uniform EU-policy umbrella. With an eye to the global marketplace and worldwide competition in science, the seminar will further examine the multiple interests which structure relations between national governments, economic corporations, political and supranational bodies as well as research and development institutions.

Timeframe: 2 weeks (June 9-20, 2008)

Benefits: The award includes round-trip air travel; travel within Germany, lodging and partial per diem; and the opporutinity to remain in Europe after the seminar to pursue individual research projects at the participants’ own costs and responsibility.

To apply: Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Scholars from U.S. universities, colleges and community colleges who hold full-time teaching appointments and meet other academic requirements (Ph.D., Ph.D. candidacy or other equivalent degree or qualifications) are eligible. The application deadline is November 1, 2007.