NSPN x Meridian
Diplomatic Skills
For Scientists Course

NSPN’S Diplomatic Skills for Scientists Training Course with Meridian is an intensive eight-week online course for early career scientists that teaches soft skills such as communication, crisis management, and cross-cultural competencies required for a diplomacy career transition. The training ends with a final training and networking event in-person in Washington, D.C.

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

This program is ideal for STEM students and professionals who are ready to explore science diplomacy and gain foundational skills to build their careers. With the knowledge and skills gained in our courses participants have gone on to secure jobs in the field.

Our course is open to any science + tech policy enthusiasts interested in learning more. If you have any questions, please reach out to info@scipolnetwork.org.

6 x 2 hour virtual classes

In-person networking event in Washington, D.C.

Certificate of Completion

Program Structure

The NSPN x Meridian Diplomatic Skills for Scientists includes six, 2-hour virtual classes, and an in-person networking event in Washington, D.C. All sessions are required. Participants will gain skills such as communication, crisis management, and cross-cultural competencies.

  • Six, 2-hour sessions July - August 2025 feature guest speakers, peer discussions, and hands-on exercises. Attendance at all sessions is required to earn a certificate.

  • In-person networking & training in Washington, D.C. connects participants and builds their network with US and foreign diplomats and other science diplomacy professionals in Washington, D.C.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Benefits

Beyond the skills and knowledge gained in this course participants will gain access to the following benefits:

  • Grow your international network: In-person training and networking opportunities in Washington, D.C. with US and foreign diplomats to build your network.

  • Certification of Completion: Earn a certificate recognizing your achievement and commitment to advancing science policy.

Course Dates & Expectations

Course participants are expected to all sessions to receive their certificates of completion.

  • July 7 , 2025 | 6:00-8:00 pm ET

  • July 14, 2025 | 6:00-8:00 pm ET

  • July 21, 2025 | 6:00-8:00 pm ET

  • July 28, 2025 | 6:00-8:00 pm ET

  • August 4, 2025 | 6:00-8:00 pm ET

  • August 11, 2025 | 6:00-8:00 pm ET

  • August 17-19, 2025 | In-person networking and training in Washington, D.C.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Applications from U.S. citizens or green card holders will be reviewed on a case by case basis. If you have questions, please contact us at info@scipolnetwork.org.

  • Courses will take place over two hours in the evenings (ET) on Mondays throughout July and August 2025. Participants will be expected to complete reading between classes. In-person participation for the final course trainings in Washington, D.C. is also required.

  • There is an in-person component to this training which will take place in Washington, D.C. in late August 2025. Meridian will reimburse partial travel and lodging costs to D.C. for participants. More information about this process and details about financial support will be shared with selected individuals. There are no other costs associated with this program.

  • This course is designed for scientists who are new to diplomacy or have only a basic understanding of the field. It’s tailored for those with interest or beginner-level knowledge and aims to provide a foundational introduction to the key concepts and practices of science diplomacy.