A congressional caucus is a group of members of the United States Congress that join together around a common topic or legislative agenda. On the House side, they are formally registered with the House Committee on Administration and consist of usually 2-4 co-chairs and some number of other members.
The Graduate Research and Development (GRAD) Caucus is a newly formed bipartisan caucus in the House of Representatives centered on the current backbone and future leaders of United States science, graduate researchers. The caucus will provide briefings on programs and policies important to graduate researchers, educate members of Congress on the work and impact of graduate researchers, and provide a forum for members to advance policy solutions needed to support these researchers.
The caucus is led by four co-chairs, Rep. Mike Doyle (D-PA-18), Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-19), and Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK-5).
As the policies that impact graduate researchers are vast, there are many topics that the GRAD Caucus will focus on. Some of our top priorities include:
ENGAGE THE FULL TALENT POOL
Ensure accessibility to graduate school for people of all backgrounds including underrepresented minorities, rural students, and international scholars.
SUPPORT AND DEVELOP GRADUATE RESEARCHERS
Improve mentorship and advising, fund fellowships and traineeships, and promote holistic growth and well-being.
PROVIDE PATHWAYS FOR FUTURE IMPACT
Expand opportunities and pathways for these researchers to apply their unique skills to further support society and tackle national challenges post-graduate school.
Whether you are a Congressional Representative looking to join the caucus or a graduate student interesting in how you can support the caucus, see here for more information on how to get involved.