The ACGT program is for ASHG trainee members to provide an introduction to the world of science policy and advocacy and help trainees build their professional skills. The ACGT program is designed for trainees who are interested in pursuing a research or clinical career but who would like to explore policy and what it means to be an advocate for human genetics and genomics research. This competitive, 12-month program will give trainees the opportunity to participate in several policy-related activities.
Duration of Program: September 2025 – September 2026
Start Date: September 4, 2025
Eligibility: Must be a current ASHG trainee member for the duration of the program. (Resident/Clinical Fellow, Postdoc, or Graduate Student).
Selection Process: Candidates are asked in the application materials to explain their motivation and interest in policy and advocacy. An advisory group from the ASHG Government and Public Advocacy Committee (GPAC) and other ASHG volunteer leaders will review application materials in May and announce the 2025-2026 ACGT Class in early June.
The ASHG ACGT program seeks to identify and select individuals who are representative of the entirety of ASHG membership and the broader scientific community. Consistent with applicable law, an individual candidate’s race, ethnicity, or sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, or transgender status) may not be considered a factor for purposes of program eligibility or in selecting participants.
What are the benefits of the program?
- Gain experience in science policy and advocacy
- Learn how to communicate effectively about your research and science to elected officials
- Get involved in special ASHG events and opportunities
- Build your professional skills in advocacy such as writing, speaking, and networking
- Network with leaders in the ASHG community and advocates
- Peer-to-Peer networking
- Explore new leadership opportunities
I don’t live or work in the U.S. May I apply?
The ACGT program primarily concentrates on United States-based policy and government. The program is open to ASHG trainee members who have a U.S.-based constituency, including trainees affiliated with a university or institution in the United States or U.S. territory. There is no citizenship requirement to participate in any of the programmatic activities. Applicants without a U.S. constituency are welcome and encouraged to explore applying for ASHG committee service.
Is prior experience in policy and advocacy required?
The program is designed to help trainee members gain new skills and experience in policy and advocacy. Therefore, prior experience is not necessary. Competitive candidates will have demonstrated interest in policy and advocacy.
I am not interested in a policy career. Is this program for me?
Yes. The program is intended for trainees who are interested in pursuing a research or clinical career but who would like to learn more about science policy and how to advocate for genetics and genomics research. ASHG, in partnership with NHGRI, also sponsors the Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship for genetics professionals wishing to transition to a policy career.
Trainees in the ACGT program will be expected to participate in a wide variety of monthly activities to help build the necessary skills and experience in advocacy.
- Virtual ASHG Capitol Hill Day
- Training workshops and webinars
- Action alerts and campaigns
- Write an op-ed
- Individual advocacy project or activity
- Networking sessions
ASHG thanks the members of the Government and Public Advocacy Committee for their stewardship of the program.
