John Patrick “JP” Flores has been recognized by the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) as the recipient of the prestigious 2025 AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award (EPPLA). This honor highlights the importance of graduate students in the biological sciences who display exceptional leadership alongside a commitment to integrating their scientific expertise with public policy initiatives. The award aims to underscore the significant role these individuals play at the nexus of science and policy-making.
Flores, a promising Ph.D. candidate at the University of North Carolina (UNC) in Chapel Hill, specializes in bioinformatics and computational biology. His research predominantly revolves around gene regulation and how 3D chromatin structures respond to environmental stressors. This focus places him at a crucial intersection of genomics and environmental science, emphasizing the pressing need for scientific insights into biological responses to external challenges, particularly in terms of ecological impact and health.
In 2024, Flores broadened his horizons through a pivotal science policy internship with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of the Director Office of Science Policy. During this experience, he played an integral role in developing strategies to incorporate patient and community perspectives into NIH-funded clinical research. This experience not only reflects his commitment to inclusivity in science but also illustrates the importance of community engagement in biological research. By focusing on inclusive practices, Flores aims to enhance public trust and ensure that research outcomes are more reflective of societal needs.
Moreover, Flores has taken on leadership roles that extend beyond his academic pursuits. He serves as the Director of External Affairs for the Science Policy and Advocacy Group at UNC, further solidifying his dedication to bridging the gap between scientific research and its application in public policy. This role enables him to advocate for science-based policies, ensuring that research findings influence decision-making processes in local and national government, thus benefiting society at large.
A well-rounded communicator and advocate for diversity in science, Flores founded the podcast From where does it STEM? in 2020. His motivation stemmed from his experience as a first-generation college student, recognizing the need for more diverse voices in science. The podcast features interviews with prominent scientists, including former NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins and National Academy of Sciences President Dr. Marcia McNutt. These discussions not only serve to illuminate scientific topics but also advocate for a broader range of perspectives in the scientific dialogue, thereby championing a more inclusive scientific community.
Flores’s vision for the future of science is clear – he sees the intersection of science and policy as fundamental to unlocking innovative solutions for society. He passionately articulates the necessity for scientists to engage in public policy dialogues, positing that such engagement is crucial for translating scientific discoveries into meaningful societal advancements. By advocating for scientific literacy among policymakers, he believes that funding can be directed toward groundbreaking research that addresses pressing societal issues.
The significance of the EPPLA program, initiated by AIBS in 2003, lies in its role in recognizing the contributions of aspiring biology graduate students who aim to impact both science and policy. AIBS has been consistent in its mission to honor those like Flores, whose leadership and policy-oriented achievements are exemplary of the caliber of candidates considered for this honor. AIBS Chief Executive Officer Scott Glisson’s statement underscores their commitment, noting continuous admiration for the leadership abilities exemplified by award nominees each year.
In April, Flores will have the opportunity to expand his advocacy efforts further by traveling to Washington, DC. He is scheduled to participate in an AIBS science communication training program and engage with congressional members during the annual AIBS Congressional Visits Day. These interactions will provide a platform for him to discuss critical scientific issues directly with lawmakers, emphasizing the need for policy frameworks that support scientific research.
In addition to Flores, the AIBS will extend Honorable Mention awards to two distinguished graduate students, Anna LoPresti and Jon Judd. LoPresti is pursuing her Ph.D. in ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Colorado, while Judd is a student in genetics at Stanford University. Both will also receive subscriptions to BioScience, allowing them access to vital scientific literature and ongoing developments in their respective fields.
As AIBS continues to advocate for informed decision-making that benefits society through advancing biological sciences, the EPPLA serves as an essential initiative supported by generous donors. This program not only acknowledges exceptional talent but also cultivates a new generation of scientists capable of contributing meaningfully to policy discourse. By fostering these emerging leaders, AIBS is bridging the gap between research and the practical implications that arise in real-world applications.
Aligned with these significant advancements in science policy, the collaborative efforts between scientists and policymakers can lead to informed legislation that enhances scientific research environments, fosters public understanding, and ultimately addresses critical issues such as climate change, health disparities, and biodiversity loss. The work of individuals like JP Flores embodies the potential of a generation eager to engage, understand, and effectuate change across various fields.
Through such initiatives, organizations like AIBS ensure that scientific perspectives are integrated into societal discussions, allowing for enhanced innovations and strategic decisions that can benefit communities at large. The remarkable journey of JP Flores serves as a testament not only to his personal achievements but also to the collective ambition within the scientific community to create a robust, informed, and engaged society.
As the role of public policy in shaping scientific research and vice versa continues to evolve, it is imperative for young scientists like Flores to remain vigilant and proactive. The future of science depends on their ability to articulate the value of research approaches and outcomes, ensuring that their contributions resonate well beyond the confines of academia, directly impacting public welfare and ethical discourse.
Through the continuous efforts and advocacy of emerging leaders in science, the dialogue surrounding the value of research in policy-making settings will undoubtedly expand. Consequently, with leaders like JP Flores at the forefront, the intersection of these fields promises a brighter path for scientific innovation and societal progress.
Subject of Research: Gene regulation and 3D chromatin structure in response to environmental stress.
Article Title: JP Flores Awarded 2025 AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award
News Publication Date: October 2023
Web References: AIBS
References: AIBS EPPLA Program
Image Credits: Katherine Apuzzo
Keywords: Science policy, biology, leadership, public engagement, genomics, advocacy.
