GoKawiilColumbia neuroscientist Stefano Cataldi shifts focus from lab to science advocacy
Stefano Cataldi, a neuroscientist at Columbia University studying serotonin's role in cognition, is weighing whether to leave bench research entirely to focus on science policy work. He is a delegate for the United Auto Workers union representing postdocs and research scientists, and last year he founded SCOPE, a Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory-backed program that teaches scientists about policy, communication and career resources.
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Cataldi's pivot reflects a broader trend among US researchers responding to funding cuts and political pressure on federal science agencies under the Trump administration. As scientists increasingly turn toward advocacy and unionization to protect their fields, the balance between doing research and defending its funding and legitimacy is becoming a defining career choice for a generation of scientists.
- Cataldi may leave bench research to focus on science policy and advocacy full-time.
- He represents Columbia postdocs and research scientists through the UAW union.
- His program SCOPE trains scientists in policy, communication and advocacy skills.
Escape from the Ivory Tower" by Nancy Baron — If Cataldi's pivot from bench to advocacy resonates, this is the classic handbook for scientists who want to speak up effectively. Nancy Baron walks researchers through talking to policymakers, journalists and the public without losing scientific rigor. A practical starting point for anyone building their own SCOPE-style path into policy and outreach.
See Escape from the Ivory Tower" by Nancy Baron on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: nature.com — De Chassey, 2026-09-08
Published there as: “Why this neuroscientist is taking the plunge into science advocacy”
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