WaterLeadership: Write a policy briefing note

Tuesday, April 6, 2021 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

As part of the Water Institute's WaterLeadership training series, Nancy Goucher, Knowledge Mobilization Specialist at the Water Institute, presents, "Write a policy briefing note."

More information

Description: One of the most commonly utilized tools for policymakers is the briefing note – a short document that summarizes an issue and makes recommendations for next steps. It is often used to articulate how scientific research can be applied to policy to resolve a particular challenge. Briefing notes are used frequently in government as well as consulting agencies, non-for-profit organizations, and private businesses. Learning how to write a concise, strategic briefing note is an excellent way to help researchers articulate the impact of their work.

Learning objectives:

  • Provide tips on effectively communicating complex scientific issues to policymakers
  • Learn how briefing notes are used by organizations outside of academia
  • How briefing notes can be used as effective science communication tools for researchers
  • Learn how to structure a great briefing note that is clear and concise

Online resources:

  • Coming soon

Who will benefit most from this: Researchers and faculty who are looking for a concise way of articulating how science can be utilized outside of academia; and those interested in learning these skills for use in a non-academic career.

Register today


The University of Waterloo is committed to achieving barrier-free accessibility for persons with disabilities who are visiting, studying or working at Waterloo. If you have questions concerning access or wish to request accommodations for this event, please contact Allie Dusome (adusome@uwaterloo.ca)