Regional-ORD Community of Science Networking Program
What is ROCS-Net?
The Regional-ORD Community of Science Networking Program (ROCS-Net) is an orientation and networking program that provides an opportunity for staff from EPA regions, states and tribes to learn more about the work of EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD). Selected participants will visit an EPA research facility to discuss collaborative research opportunities, science priorities and cross-cutting issues with EPA scientists. The program includes overviews of EPA research programs, meetings with laboratory scientists, facility tours, research demonstrations and information sharing sessions between participants.
The program is designed for scientists from EPA regions, states and tribes who have had limited or no engagement with ORD and would benefit from a greater understanding of ORD capabilities and expertise. Candidates must have their supervisor's approval to apply. ORD will support the travel expenses for selected participants.
ROCS-Net 2018 participants on a lab tour in Cincinnati, OH
Group photo taken at ROCS-Net 2019 in Research Triangle Park, NC
Benefits of Participating in ROCS-Net?
EPA research is a vital resource to states, tribes and communities, providing the technical support and training, science-based tools, and innovative approaches and methods they need to meet their highest priority environmental and related public health challenges. ROCS-Net provides an opportunity for regional, state and tribal participants to learn firsthand about EPA research that is useful and practical to help address on the ground problems in their communities.
The 2020/2021 program is especially of value to those who work on issues related to the designated focus areas: water quality, land remediation and homeland security/materials management.
Contact ROCSNet@epa.gov for more information.