Answers to frequently asked questions are below.
General Program Questions
Q: Who is the Science Advocate Alliance for?
A: The Alliance is for anyone who supports science and medical progress and wants to be more effective in advocacy and outreach. That includes scientists, research professionals, veterinarians, technicians, communicators, students, and community advocates. You don’t need prior advocacy experience—just an interest in learning and engaging.
Q: Do I need a background in animal research or policy to participate?
A: No. The program is designed to meet participants where they are. We provide the background, context, and training needed to engage confidently, regardless of your starting point.
Q: Is this more professional development or advocacy?
A: It’s intentionally both. Members build transferable skills—like communication, outreach, and relationship-building—while applying those skills to support science and medical research in real-world settings.
Q: Will there be a certificate of attendance available?
A: Yes. We will provide a certificate of completion after each quarter. The certificate will indicate your proficiency in the skill learned and applied.
Q: Can we do this as an institutional membership or only as an individual?
A: This is an opportunity for individuals only. We may consider providing opportunities for labs or staff teams in the future based on interest and requests.
Time Commitment & Format
Q: What is the time commitment?
A: Members can expect one structured session per month, plus optional engagement in the Slack community and action activities. We designed it to be meaningful but manageable for working professionals.
Q: Are sessions live, and will they be recorded?
A: Sessions will be live to encourage interaction and networking, and recordings will be available for members who can’t attend in real time.
Q: What if I can’t attend every monthly session?
A: We understand schedules vary. While live participation adds value, members can still benefit from recordings, resources, and the Slack community.
Q: When during the day or week will sessions be held?
A: Since we are in the initial launch of the program, we will poll Inaugural members on days/times that work best. We will aim to have the sessions on the same day and time each month. Although we may need to alternate monthly days/times to ensure that everyone is able to attend at least one live session per quarter.
Monthly Coaching & Skills
Q: What kinds of skills will be covered?
A: Skills focus on advocacy and outreach, such as communicating about animal research, engaging policymakers, public-facing science communication, and building local advocacy networks. Each quarter centers on one skill so participants can really develop confidence and competence.
Q: What does it mean that participants present a project?
A: Participants will have the opportunity—never an obligation—to share how they applied the skill in a real-world context. It’s meant to be supportive, practical, and confidence-building, not intimidating.
Q: Will there be guidance and feedback?
A: Yes. Coaching sessions are designed to be interactive, with feedback from facilitators and peers to help refine skills and strengthen impact.
Networking & Community
Q: How does the Slack channel work?
A: The Slack channel is a private space for Alliance members to ask questions, share resources, discuss advocacy challenges, and connect between sessions. It’s an ongoing community, not just a meeting space.
Q: Is networking structured or informal?
A: It’s both. Networking happens naturally through Slack and discussions, and we also build intentional networking time into coaching sessions.
Impact & Advocacy
Q: How does this help advance science and medicine?
A: By equipping more people with the skills and confidence to communicate clearly, build relationships, and advocate effectively, the Alliance helps strengthen public and policy support for research—an essential foundation for continued medical advances.
Q: Will members be asked to engage in advocacy actions?
A: Yes, but in a guided and supportive way. Action requests are designed to align with the skills being taught and are meant to be practical, respectful, and appropriate for each participant’s comfort level.
Membership & Enrollment
Q: When do the monthly coaching sessions begin?
A: Coaching and networking sessions begin in June.
Q: What happens if I join now?
A: You’ll get immediate access to the Slack community, begin receiving AMPNews, help shape future coaching topics, and be eligible to renew next year at the inaugural rate.
Q: Is this a one-year commitment?
A: To get the most value, membership runs annually, with opportunities to renew. Those who join during the inaugural year can renew for a second year at the same rate. Members may also join us on a month-to-month basis.
Q: I’m interested but not sure I’m “ready” to be an advocate—should I join?
A: Yes. The Alliance is designed specifically for people who want to grow into that role. If you care about science and want to build skills in a supportive environment, this program is for you.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: The inaugural rate is $10 per month or $100 per year.
Q: How do I join?
A: Go to https://www.amprogress.org/payment/ . Choose “individual” and the preferred payment frequency (monthly or annual). Once payment is received, you will receive a welcome letter along with access to your new member benefits.
Still have questions? Reach out to us or book a call.