Researchers want to share their findings beyond the academy, but when brief policy windows open, few feel prepared to act. That is why, with support from Research!America, we at TrestleLink have built short, high-impact trainings designed for just-in-time use by busy scholars. Led by our graduate trainee, Patrick O’Neill, these modules help researchers shift from passive dissemination to relationship-driven engagement that policymakers can trust.

“As a graduate student and early career researcher, Research!America’s support was invaluable in allowing me to lead this project. As I created these trainings, I realized many researchers feel a sense of urgency, but they don’t know where to start when it comes to connecting with policymakers. I wanted to create something that would both respect their busy schedules and give them the confidence to take that first step.”

—Patrick O’Neill, MA, Doctoral Candidate in Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University

For us at TrestleLink, these trainings reflect TrestleLink’s broader mission to make research engagement feasible, fast, and effective, especially for our Rapid Response Network scholars who often need tools they can apply in real time.

“We created these trainings because we believe research is only as valuable as its real-world impact. Policymakers need trusted partners, and researchers need skills and support to step confidently into that role.”

—Taylor Scott, PhD, Co-Founder, TrestleLink

Why these trainings? Why now?

We know researchers are busy. With rapidly evolving policy windows that can open and close quickly, it is important to be ready when opportunities arise. That’s why the three new trainings, each under 10 minutes, help even the busiest scholars learn practical, confidence-building ways to engage in the policymaking world.

Module 1: Why It’s Important to Engage With Policymakers

Learn why researchers’ voices matter in shaping policy and how evidence can make a difference when it’s shared strategically. This module highlights the value of engaging with policymakers and helps you recognize when and how to act on policy opportunities.

Module 2: Creating a Fact Sheet

Get hands-on guidance for translating research into a concise and compelling fact sheet that policymakers will actually read. You’ll learn how to distill key findings, craft clear takeaway points, and make your message actionable.

Module 3: Engaging With Policymakers Through SCOPE

Discover the Science Communication Optimizer for Policy Engagement (SCOPE) model, a motivational engagement strategy designed to help build lasting and meaningful relationships with policymakers. This module shows how to use the model to plan productive meetings and foster continuing collaborations. 

Ready to get started?

• Explore our free training library and certificate programs.
• Join a network of 800+ researchers already building trusted, nonpartisan relationships with policymakers.

December 2025
TrestleLink Team