To complement the Center for Public Policy Research’s (CPPR) established programs in Health and Education Policy, the Science Policy Pillar expands CPPR’s reach into the critical intersection of scientific innovation and public governance.
Launched in 2026, this newest Pillar strengthens CPPR’s focus on the science-policy interface in two key dimensions:
- Science Informing Policy: Leveraging scientific research and expertise to build a strong foundation for evidence-based public policy.
- Policy Shaping Science: Examining how policy decisions, funding structures, and regulatory frameworks influence the trajectory and priorities of scientific research.
Community Engagement & Thought Leadership
Led by Professor Ramgopal Mettu (Computer Science), the Science Policy Pillar seeks to actively engage the academic community and the wider community through original research and regular events designed to highlight science-policy frameworks locally and nationally.
- Working Groups: Interactive sessions fostering ongoing collaboration among faculty, researchers, and practitioners.
- Annual Workshop: A flagship yearly gathering dedicated to in-depth examination of emerging science-policy challenges.
- Position Papers: Publications and policy briefs that offer actionable insights into the political economy of scientific research and public policy.
Multidisciplinary Working Groups
The Science Policy Pillar establishes cross-disciplinary working groups that connect faculty, researchers, and experts from across Tulane. Our initial collaborative focus areas include:
- Climate Change & Environmental Resilience
- Coastal Studies & Community Sustainability
- Biomedical Science & Healthcare Innovation
- Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
We encourage Tulane researchers interested in the aforementioned topic areas – from either a science or policy perspective – to join a working group by contacting Dr. Mettu.
CPPR Science Policy and Communication Graduate Fellows Program
The Science Policy Pillar houses the Science Policy and Communication Graduate Fellows Program – a collaborative partnership between CPPR, the School of Science and Engineering, and the School of Medicine.
The fellowship offers hands-on training, research opportunities, and professional development designed to equip future leaders to bridge the gap between scientific experts and societal decision-makers, preparing them to advocate for ethical, evidence-based policy solutions. Fellows also contribute substantively to the inquiry carried out in the Science Policy Pillar.
Visit the Science Policy and Communication Graduate Fellows Program page to explore program details, eligibility, and curriculum.