Harrisburg skyline on river with gears and cogs overlay.

COPA-STEP

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Science and Technology Policy Program

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Science and Technology Policy Program (COPA-STEP) bridges research and policymaking in Pennsylvania, advancing evidence-based decision-making and preparing leaders to engage in the legislative process.

We are part of Penn State's Law, Policy, and Engineering Initiative

Founded as a volunteer program, COPA-STEP became part of LPE in October 2023, where it now operates under LPE’s guidance to deliver practical science and technology policy training and outreach.

COPA-STEP serves as the applied practice branch of LPE’s interdisciplinary mission. While LPE drives interdisciplinary education in law, policy, and engineering, COPA-STEP specializes in real-world policy engagement and professional development, reinforcing LPE's mission to produce actionable knowledge that supports public, environmental, and scientific welfare. Through COPA-STEP, LPE faculty and staff deliver hands-on training to graduate students and fellows, focusing on science communication, policy writing, and engagement in legislative settings.

“When I first spoke with the young leaders of COPA-STEP several years ago, I immediately believed that this is a program Pennsylvania's General Assembly and our entire state could benefit from.”

Jordan Harris , PA House Representative

We are part of a national effort.

Our Pennsylvania program is part of a growing trend across the U.S.to bridge the gap between the scientific community and policy decision makers. Together, LPE and COPA-STEP aim to develop Pennsylvania's science-policy ecosystem and foster collaboration with state government.

Map of the USA indicating states with Science and Technology Policy Fellowships in State-Level Government.

Active Fellowships:

California - California Council on Science & Technology (CCST)
Colorado - Colorado Science & Engineering Policy Fellowship
Connecticut - Connecticut Academy of Science & Engineering
Idaho - ISTPF
Indiana - Indiana Academy of Science, Ball State University, University of Notre Dame, Indiana University, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Massachusetts - Scientific Citizen Initiative, Harvard Medical School
Missouri - MOST Policy Initiative
New Jersey - Rutgers University Eagleton Institution of Politics
North Carolina - Sea Grant North Carolina
New York - Rockefeller Institute of Government
Virginia - Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM), COVES Fellows.
West Virginia - West Virginia University Bridge Initiative for S&T Policy, Leadership, & Communications