Oct. 15 Forum on Science Policy Platforms of Presidential Candidates

EVANSTON, Ill. --- The Northwestern University Science Policy Action Network (NU-SPAN) will host "Election 2008: Presidential Perspectives on Science & Technology" at Northwestern University Wednesday, Oct. 15, with scientists from both presidential campaigns discussing the science policy platforms of the candidates.

Donald Lamb, a science advisor to Democratic candidate Barack Obama and Louis Block Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Chicago, will discuss Sen. Obama's science policy platform. Jacqueline DeFoe, a volunteer on Republican candidate John McCain's campaign and chemistry doctoral candidate at the University of Chicago, will discuss the science policy positions of Sen. McCain.

The forum is free and open to the public and will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in Lecture Room 3 at the Technological Institute, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston campus. A reception will follow.

The event is an opportunity to have a focused discussion on important science issues facing the nation. Expected topics include the energy crisis, stem cell research and scientific funding. The forum will begin with an overview of the science platforms of each candidate and end with a lengthy question-and-answer session. Questions can be submitted in advance or at the event.

NU-SPAN, which formed this year and is supported by a Graduate School community-building grant, was formed to bring the importance of science policy issues to the forefront through discussion and education.

Cosponsors of the event are the Northwestern Energy Technology Group and Scientists and Engineers for America. For more information or to submit a question in advance, email nuspan@gmail.com.