Our Mission

The Center for Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy is focused on identifying and solving emerging energy and environmental issues; fostering interdisciplinary and community-engaged research to address socio-economic inequality, and preparing future leaders in the energy, environmental, and policy arenas.

In July 2021, CSTEP launched a new series in partnership with the Institute on the Environment on climate policy honoring retired government, business, community, and University of Minnesota leader Tom Swain in his 100th year.

Rather than looking backward at this point in his life, Tom is looking ahead. Alarmed by the warming of our planet, he is concerned about the fate of future generations as they face life-threatening environmental challenges. Swain is keen to enlist his fellow community members in efforts to reduce the climate threat.

The CSTEP policy clinic supports community partners working to advance environmental and energy justice. The Clinic seeks to build flexible and responsive partnerships to integrate research capacity with community organizations and other non-profits by leveraging researcher and student expertise in policy analysis and targeted research support.

STEP Seminar Series

The STEP Seminar Series is an interdisciplinary platform for scholars and practitioners to discuss research and policy issues in the broad domain of science, technology, and environmental policy. The hybrid series takes place throughout the academic year at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs and on Zoom, typically over lunchtime on Tuesdays. Interested speakers should email Olivia Schares for a list of available dates. 

Our Vision

The Center for Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy is focused on identifying and solving emerging energy and environmental issues; fostering interdisciplinary and community-engaged research to address socio-economic inequality, and preparing future leaders in the energy, environmental, and policy arenas.