By welcoming its fourth cohort, the Idaho Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (ISTPF) is expanding its impact and continuing to advance Idaho’s science and policy ecosystem.
This year’s cohort, which began its fellowship years at the end of August, includes a second-year scholar for the first time. Sarah Maher, Ph.D., is a second-year fellow at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG), and Kimberly Gardner, Ph.D., is a first-year fellow, who will be hosted by two agencies through a joint nomination – the Idaho Department of Labor and the Idaho Workforce Development Council.
Gardner holds a doctorate in public policy and administration and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Boise State University, and a master’s degree in public policy and administration from Baylor University. His research focused on big data and the ethical use of data.
Maher is an interdisciplinary researcher with expertise in magnetic studies and data analysis. She holds a doctorate in earth sciences from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, a master’s degree in geology and geophysics from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, and a bachelor’s degree in physics and astronomy from the University of Victoria.
“Sarah is an integral part of the IDFG team and we are thrilled that she will be able to spend a second year with us,” said Amber Worthington, IDFG Deputy Director. “Through this second year of expansion, she will be immersed in a deeper policy experience, seeing her work on the ground translate into policy. »
ISTPF is a nonpartisan program that provides Idaho state government scientists, social scientists, and engineers with direct exposure to policymaking while using their knowledge and skills to address the pressing challenges facing the state. The program also provides training for professionals in government, business and academia.
During the first three years of ISTPF, six fellows were placed in six state agencies: the Governor’s Office of Energy and Mineral Resources, the Governor’s Office of Species Conservation, the Department of Idaho Environmental Quality, the Idaho STEM Action Center, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and Office of Legislative Services.
ISTPF, now in its fourth year, is a partnership between Boise State University, Idaho State University and the University of Idaho. The McClure Center for Public Policy Research at the University of Illinois is the program manager.
“This important program keeps Idaho talent in Idaho and engages subject matter experts to advise and learn about science policy across our state,” said Marlene Tromp, president of Boise State University . “The impact of bringing scientists, policymakers, and members of our communities together to learn and grow together profoundly benefits our great state. »
ISTPF raised over $1 million for its launch and expansion. Sources of financial support for the fourth year are the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Boise State University, Idaho State University, University of Idaho, and individual donors. Learn more about ISTPF at www.uidaho.edu/istpf.