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ACGT Program
Applications for the 2026-2027 program open March 16, 2026 and close on April 30, 2026.
The ACGT Program provides trainees with an introduction to the world of science policy and advocacy, helps them communicate and advocate for the value of human genetics and genomics, and build relationships beyond the lab. The ACGT Program is designed for trainees who are interested in pursuing a research or clinical career and want to develop the confidence and expertise to articulate the importance of human genetics research and help ensure scientific advances are translated into policies that improve human health. Participants gain practical skills through monthly virtual training, real-world policy engagement, and opportunities to connect with leaders across the genetics community.
Program Overview
Purpose: This 12-month program will give ASHG trainees the opportunity to participate in several policy and advocacy-related activities, including a virtual Capitol Hill Day and monthly learning webinars. ACGT participants will also complete an individual advocacy project or activity that enables deeper learning on a specific policy topic, such as drafting an op-ed or meeting with their local Congressional office.
Duration of program: September 2026 – September 2027
Start Date: September 3, 2026
Qualifications and Skills
Candidates must be a current ASHG trainee member (resident/clinical fellow, postdoc, or graduate student). The program is open to ASHG trainee members who have a U.S.-based constituency, including trainees affiliated with a university or institution in the United States or U.S. territory. There is no citizenship requirement to participate in any of the programmatic activities. No prior experience or training is required but candidates should be able to articulate their interest in policy and advocacy.
ASHG expects that participants in the ACGT Program will join all monthly sessions, fully participate in all Q&As and discussions, and complete all assignments. Applicants are asked to acknowledge the participation requirements in the ASHG Portal. The ACGT Program seeks to identify and select individuals who are representative of the entirety of ASHG membership and the broader scientific community. Consistent with applicable law, an individual candidate’s race, ethnicity, or sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, or transgender status) may not be considered a factor for purposes of program eligibility or in selecting participants.
An ASHG portal login is required to access the ACGT Program site. This is the login used to join the Society or renew membership. If you do not have an ASHG portal login, you may create a new account after clicking on "Submit an Application" below and selecting the appropriate option. Upon logging in, you will be asked to give the submission system permission to access your ASHG account information.