Mission and Purpose

The Science, Technology, and Innovation Expert Partnership (STIEP) Speaker Series draws from the membership of each partner organization to promote U.S. science diplomacy abroad. With the support of U.S. embassies, the speaker series expands the reach of U.S. science, technology, and engineering experts by indentifying public diplomacy opportunities to engage scientific counterparts and foreign audiences, including science and non-science audiences, around the world. 

Participating members of the U.S. scientific community will have the opportunity to: 

• Discuss shared global challenges in science, research, and engineering
• Inform and engage the public about important scientific issues in relation to their communities
• Inspire a new generation, especially young women, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)
• Promote expanded collaboration around the world
• Forge relationships that build STEM capacity in developing nations

About the Program 

The STIEP Speaker Series is designed to provide U.S. geoscientists already scheduled for travel abroad with expanded opportunities to engage with foreign audiences within the region. These programs may include presentations, lectures, seminars, and meetings with key individuals in leadership or media positions. 

In unusual circumstances funding may be provided to support additional travel throughout the region. 

The partnership also provides non-travelers with the opportunity to engage with foreign sciene and non-science audiences through a range of social media platforms. Select experts are also encouraged to write articles or blogs, as well as engage through video and other media. 

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Please note that aplying to the program does not guarantee participation. The State Department and U.S. embassies will work with successful applicants to match each expert with an appropriate embassy. 

Qualifications

Successful candidates will be engaging communicators that can effectively explain their information and expertise to an assortment of audiences. We seek applicants who are eager to speak not only about their research, but also shared global challenges in science, engineering, and research, including, but not limited to, STEM education, women in science, the peer review process, and innovation. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and already scheduled for travel abroad to qualify. 

To apply for the program, please fill out our online submission form. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. 

Topics of Interest

• STEM education 
• Women in science
• The peer review process & international collaboration 
• The energy mix
• Natural resources
• Innovation