Communication processes lie at the heart of the creation, transfer, and use of scientific knowledge for policy. Communication can span boundaries between scientists and decision-makers, help achieve democratic goals for governance through citizen outreach and participation, and facilitate the use of evidence in the design of public-facing governmental programs.

My research focuses on the intersection between governance and science and risk communication. I explore this nexus across three areas of study:

  1. communication of science with policymakers, or “science advice”;
  2. public participation in decision-making on scientific issues; and
  3. the use of social science for evidence-based policymaking within government programs.
PHOTO2

K. L. Akerlof, PhD