February 20, 2026 – The Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) announced the appointment of Laurie Zabala as its fifth Chief Executive Officer and Managing Publisher, effective January 30, 2026. Zabala brings experience in science policy, program management, and building strategic partnerships to lead JSPG into its next chapter of growth and impact.

Zabala currently serves as Associate Director of Science Initiatives and Outreach at Research!America, where she leads the organization’s early career civic science programs and manages the Science CEO Group. In her first year at Research!America, she implemented an outreach strategy that generated a record-setting 116% increase in applications to the Civic Engagement Microgrant program. Previously, she provided policy and administrative support at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), where she developed systems to track programmatic impact, among other roles.

With dual master’s degrees in Integrative Neuroscience from Georgetown University and International Relations from Hult International Business School, Zabala combines scientific expertise with strategic thinking. She is a founding member of the Vannevar Group, a policy and advocacy organization advancing evidence-based national science policy solutions and currently serves on its Board.

“Laurie embodies the vision and entrepreneurial spirit that JSPG needs at this pivotal moment,” said Julianne McCall, outgoing CEO of JSPG and CEO of the California Council on Science and Technology. “Her track record of building programs that amplify early-career voices, coupled with her strategic approach to partnerships and her commitment to broadening participation in science and technology policy, makes her the ideal leader to expand our impact. I’m confident that under her leadership, JSPG will continue to empower the next generation of science policy decision-makers through substantive research and meaningful engagement.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Laurie as JSPG’s new CEO,” said Erin Heath, JSPG Board Chair and Director of Federal Relations at AAAS. “Her vision for developing sustainable funding strategies and creating strategic partnerships that elevate underrepresented voices aligns perfectly with JSPG’s mission. Laurie’s demonstrated ability to grow programs, mentor emerging professionals, and convene diverse stakeholders will be invaluable as we work to expand JSPG’s reach and influence in the science and technology policy community.”

As CEO, Zabala will oversee all aspects of JSPG’s operations, communications, outreach, and international engagement activities. Her strategic plan involves developing comprehensive fundraising strategies, strengthening JSPG’s brand identity, and forging partnerships that broaden participation in science policy.
JSPG, founded in 2012, serves as the premier platform for early-career researchers to publish science policy analysis and engage with pressing policy challenges. The organization publishes peer-reviewed articles, hosts convenings, and provides professional development opportunities for the next generation of science policy leaders.

Zabala began her two-year term on January 30th, working closely with JSPG’s Governing Board, Advisory Board, fellow volunteer staff, and editorial leadership to advance the organization’s mission of empowering voices and shaping policy.
About the Journal of Science Policy & Governance: The Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) is a nonprofit organization that provides early-career researchers with opportunities to publish science policy research, develop professional skills, and engage with the science policy community. Through its open-access journal, events, and programs, JSPG empowers the next generation of science and technology policy decision-makers.

Media Contact: Elizabeth DiLoreto, JSPG’s Director of Public Affairs and Communications, [email protected]

Are you ready to amplify early‑career voices in science and technology policy? The Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) is recruiting new volunteer staff members—and applications close at 11:59 p.m. ET on August 1.
Why serve on JSPG staff?
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and open‑access journal, JSPG thrives on the energy of early‑career scholars and professionals who want to translate research into real‑world policy change. Staff volunteers keep that engine running—from shaping outreach strategy to coordinating events and supporting authors.
What You’ll Gain

• Practical leadership and project‑management skills
  
• Exposure to cutting‑edge ideas in global STI policy
  
• Mentorship from seasoned science‑policy practitioners
  
• A supportive, international network committed to equitable policy discourse
  

Who Should Apply
Graduate students, post‑docs, policy fellows, and young professionals in any discipline—STEM, social sciences, humanities—are welcome. Prior nonprofit or editorial experience is helpful but not required. Curiosity, reliability, and a passion for inclusive science policy matter most.
How to Apply
Complete the short form by August 1:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScrWk4ZL1zH6GgqGbQV2kctM6e_etjTZr9B6aAPOXKehMuiLg/viewform
Questions? Email [email protected] with the subject line “JSPG Staff Application.”
Make your mark on the future of science policy. Join JSPG’s staff and help elevate the next generation of policy innovators.

“This is my final issue as Editor-in-Chief of JSPG, and I couldn’t be prouder that my tenure ends with such a strong and diverse collection of articles. In this issue, our authors explore some of the most challenging questions in science policy today, fulfilling an important mission for scientists to contribute their expertise to support the public. I’m especially grateful to our amazing editorial team, who helped our authors refine their arguments in these 12 excellent publications,” said Andy Sanchez, JSPG Editor-in-Chief.

The winter standard issue of the journal explores urgent science policy challenges across climate resilience, digital infrastructure, public health, and national competitiveness. Articles address topics such as mitigating the environmental impact of Georgia’s booming data center industry, enhancing tobacco and e-cigarette regulation globally, and state-level strategies for semiconductor reshoring in Arizona under the CHIPS Act. Together, the pieces provide forward-looking policy recommendations grounded in equity, innovation, and sustainability.

“In these demanding times when science and public policy intersect with urgent issues from climate change and AI regulation to health equity and sustainable technology, we are proud to publish this collection of articles, featuring thoughtful research and policy recommendations from a wide range of scholars and practitioners. As we navigate an increasingly complex world, these contributions remind us that science-informed, research-driven policy solutions can create meaningful change and build a more equitable and sustainable future for all. I would especially like to congratulate our outgoing Editor-in-Chief, Andy Sanchez, for his courageous, collaborative, and generous leadership over the past five years, raising this organization of ours to new heights,” said Julianne McCall, JSPG CEO & Managing Publisher. ​

“JSPG is honored to publish this excellent collection of articles ahead of the 2024 US elections. We hope that these publications can help inform voters and policymakers alike, reflecting on key challenges where science and policy intersect, including water resource governance, and AI in healthcare, abortion care, and more. Our authors provide a showcase for the many ways scientists can support underserved communities in policy negotiations,” said Andy Sanchez, JSPG Editor-in-Chief.

The summer standard issue includes sixteen articles on topics ranging from policies to grow the semiconductor workforce to equitable Baconora production, racial bias in artificial intelligence, Indigenous water governance, and interstate abortion care after the U.S. Supreme Court Dobbs decision.

“We have always prided ourselves at JSPG for shedding light on critical STEM policy topics, and our latest standard issue continues that tradition in the most timely fashion, on the eve of an unprecedented electoral crossroads of the world’s largest economy. The strong leaning toward US-based topics is a testament to our partnership with the National Science Policy Network, a fellow organization leading on the engagement of early-career professionals, fellows, and students. This final standard issue of 2024 represents a rigorous examination of how science policy can better serve diverse communities and accelerate technological progress. The issue's breadth spans sustainable agriculture, transportation innovations, and semiconductor manufacturing, while tackling complex topics such as criminal justice, scientific publishing reform, indigenous inclusion, and federal R&D priorities—offering policymakers and interested parties evidence-based insights for navigating many of today's most urgent societal needs,” said Julianne McCall, JSPG CEO & Managing Publisher. ​

We invite students, post-doctoral researchers, policy fellows, early-career researchers, and early-career professionals from around the world to submit op-eds, policy position papers, policy memos or analyses, and other articles addressing bioeconomy policy ideas and challenges. These include topics and concerns around the intersection of biology/biotechnology and artificial intelligence and machine learning, biomanufacturing, food, and agriculture. Submission deadline: January 13, 2025.

“Together with JSPG, we’re excited about the incredible opportunities for engineering biology to grow the bioeconomy. Engineering biology and biotechnologies can revolutionize our approaches to tackling global food shortages, mitigating the climate crisis sustainably and responsibly, and ensuring that even the most remote or resource-limited environments have access to life-saving materials and medicines. With the U.S. election and the start of a new Administration and Congress, this is a great time to highlight the research issues that matter, share impactful policy ideas, and make the voices of the next generation of leaders heard,” said India Hook-Barnard, Executive Director, Engineering Biology Research Consortium.

The goals of the 2024 Special Topics Issue are to generate new ideas that may provide policymakers with leading-edge perspectives and analyses demonstrating how engineering biology and emerging biotechnology are poised to provide sustainable solutions and re-invent products and processes across all societal sectors, compiled in a special issue on Advancing Science & Technology Policy for the Next-Generation Bioeconomy. 

“We are thrilled to partner with the Engineering Biology Research Consortium for this Special Issue, which will provide a platform for early-career professionals, fellows, and students to offer innovative insights on the future of the bioeconomy. As we face unprecedented global challenges, engineering biology holds tremendous potential to drive sustainable solutions and transform industries across all sectors. Our collaboration will showcase a range of forward-thinking policy ideas and analyses for practical use by leading policymakers to help navigate this rapidly evolving landscape,” said Julianne McCall, JSPG CEO & Managing Publisher.

As part of this partnership, JSPG and EBRC will organize a series of events to help prospective authors improve their submissions to the Special Topics Issue. Following peer review, accepted articles will be entered into a policy paper competition, where a committee of experts in biotechnology and bioeconomy policy will select the top three articles. First-, second- and third-place article winners will be awarded registration and travel support to the 2025 EBRC Annual Meeting (up to $800) and an opportunity to present their published work at the event.​

ABOUT JSPG
The Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) is an international, open-access peer-reviewed publication managed by and for students, policy fellows, and young scholars in science, technology, and innovation policy. JSPG publishes high-quality articles covering the widest range of topics in formats that are accessible to policymakers. Since 2011, JSPG has served as a vehicle for students and early career researchers to bolster their research and writing credentials in science policy. Visit https://www.sciencepolicyjournal.org/ and follow on X @SciPolJournal to learn more.

​ABOUT EBRC
EBRC is a non-profit, public-private partnership dedicated to bringing together an inclusive community committed to advancing engineering biology to address national and global needs. We showcase cutting-edge research in engineering biology, identify pressing challenges and opportunities in research and application, and articulate compelling research roadmaps and programs to address these challenges and opportunities. Our four focus areas, driven by member-led working groups, are Research Roadmapping, Education, Security, and Policy & International Engagement. Visit https://ebrc.org/ and follow on Linkedin to learn more. ​

“With 17 articles, this is our second largest issue ever, and it provides a terrific showcase for the urgent and wide-ranging challenges facing society today. These publications highlight how thoroughly science intersects with policy, with topics like genetic testing databases used by law enforcement, the influence of misinformation on clean energy transitions, and more. We’re thrilled to continue growing the international network of JSPG, with subjects and authors representing Australia, Canada, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, and beyond” said Andy Sanchez, JSPG Editor-in-Chief.

The winter standard issue includes seventeen articles addressing topics that range from deep sea mining and hydraulic fracking, clean energy production, invasive plants, maternal morbidity, PFAS-based fish consumption, and plastic consumption.

“The near-record-breaking number of submissions for this issue is a testament to the growing interest in science and technology policy and governance among students, fellows, and early career researchers and professionals,” said Julianne McCall, JSPG CEO & Managing Publisher. “A glance at any news headline reminds us of the enormity of the challenges facing societies worldwide, and we are proud to attract this cohort of authors for timely recommendations, awareness, and solutions.”​

We invite students, postdocs, policy fellows, early career researchers, and early-stage professionals in science and technology policy to submit articles in all formats published by JSPG to the Summer Standard Issue. Following peer review by the JSPG Editorial Board, published authors will have the opportunity to participate in networking events, media engagement, and other programs. Submission deadline: May 26, 2024.

The 2024 Summer Standard Issue aims to generate and amplify the next generation's policy ideas and put them into action. This issue encourages submissions that highlight policy opportunities and audiences that center on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Leading up to the submission deadline, JSPG and NSPN will organize a series of events to help prospective authors improve their submissions to the Summer Standard Issue, including one writing workshop and two virtual expert panels. See event details on the JSPG-NSPN Summer Standard Issue Events Webpage.​
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ABOUT JSPG
The Journal of Science Policy & Governance (JSPG) is an international, open-access peer-reviewed publication managed by and for students, policy fellows, and young scholars in science, technology, and innovation policy. JSPG publishes high-quality articles covering the widest range of topics in formats that are accessible to policymakers. Since 2011, JSPG has served as a vehicle for students and early career researchers to bolster their research and writing credentials in science policy. Visit https://www.sciencepolicyjournal.org/ and follow on Twitter @SciPolJournal to learn more.

​ABOUT NSPN
The National Science Policy Network (NSPN) is a non-profit representing early career science policy, advocacy, and diplomacy groups distributed across the country, focused on providing a platform for sharing resources, building relationships, and training the next generation of scientists and engineers to be pivotal voices in all levels of policy making.. Visit scipolnetwork.org and follow on Twitter @scipolnetwork to learn more.​