For close to a decade, Adriana Bankston has worked to nurture U.S. competitiveness in science and technology through a number of roles with universities, non-profits and scientific societies. Adriana was selected as the inaugural AAAS/ASGCT Congressional Policy Fellow starting in fall 2024, where she will provide science-based, independent guidance to federal policymakers on Capitol Hill. Previously, Adriana was a Principal Legislative Analyst with University of California Federal Governmental Relations, where she advocated for the university’s research priorities with Congress, the Administration and federal agencies. Adriana received the inaugural ARIS Emerging Broader Impacts Leader Award, and the Top 20 in 2022 Award For Excellence in Advocacy from The Advocacy Association among other honors. Adriana earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology from Emory University.

What are you most proud of in your work or life?

I have long had a passion for supporting the STEM pipeline, including the postdoctoral population. My advocacy work culminated in having legislative language on postdocs included in the CHIPS and Science Act and seeing the bill signed into law.

What are your passions and hobbies?

Walking my dog, listening to podcasts, and baking

Favorite snack food?

Trail mix