South Middlesex Times

More scientists are finding opportunities to contribute to state government initiatives, such as power grid management and energy efficiency, through a collaboration between the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University-New Brunswick and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU). This partnership, established last year, supports the Eagleton Science and Politics Program, which offers a year-long fellowship for scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals in New Jersey.

Kira Lawrence, a former fellow and climate scientist, shared her motivation: “I wanted to focus my efforts on helping human societies to mitigate or adapt to the climate crisis.” She emphasized the critical role of NJBPU in transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy.

Since 2023, five scientists have served as Eagleton Science fellows at NJBPU. Aileen Eagleton is among them. She discovered the fellowship by chance on LinkedIn and saw it as an opportunity to merge her passion for science with community organizing. “I really enjoy community organizing... I feel like I couldn't just do that in the lab,” she said.

The program allows doctorate-level scientists to apply their expertise in state policy development. Anna Dulencin, director of the Eagleton Science and Politics Program, noted that there are eight fellows this year. "This is a fairly unique opportunity for scientists," she said.

Angela Oberg from Rutgers highlighted the importance of adding a climate-action track: “It provides NJBPU with access to subject-matter experts who can help advance New Jersey’s ambitious climate action goals.”

Aileen Eagleton works at the Office of Clean Energy Equity on an urban heat island pilot program proposal. Her focus includes addressing heat effects in overburdened communities. Stacy Ho Richardson praised her work: “Aileen brings a fresh and welcome perspective on clean energy equity.”

These fellowships often lead to employment within state agencies. Natalie Stuart became a research scientist at NJBPU after her fellowship. She was attracted by "the opportunity to impact and make effective change." Stuart learned about the program from alum Joseph Gurrentz, who also joined NJBPU full-time post-fellowship.

Reflecting on her career path influenced by the fellowship recommendation, Stuart stated: “I'm really grateful... I think he really changed the trajectory of where I headed with my degree.”