Science in a Regulatory Agency Event

Science in a Regulatory Agency

Thursday, April 6th, 2017

ZHS 200, 1pm (lunch is included)

Being a scientist in a regulatory agency holds challenges unique in the scientific community. Such a position requires a clear understanding of the differences between science and policy, and requires that a scientist is continually aware of the need to protect and maintain her independence and objectivity. While scientists in the academic community have the freedom to make policy recommendations, researchers in a regulatory agency must stop short of advocating for particular policy choices, while at the same time conducting science that informs those policy choices. The line between informing and advocating is not always clear, especially as science becomes increasingly politicized. We will discuss some of the sensitivities, challenges, and opportunities that come with doing science in a regulatory setting.

Dr. C.A. (Andy) Miller is the Associate Director for Climate with EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD) and represents EPA at the US Global Change Research Program. Most of his 26 years have been with ORD, where he conducted research on characterization and control of combustion-generated air pollution and on climate change impacts, adaptation, and mitigation. He also spent several months working for the Office of Air and Radiation on a regulation to control oxides of nitrogen from power plants. Andy has served as a team lead for PM research, and was Acting National Program Director for ORD’s PM research program. He received a B.S. and M.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Arizona, and a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from North Carolina State University. He is currently located in the Southern California Field Office, part of EPA’s Region 9, but continues to work for ORD from Los Angeles.