Smart Policy for an Innovative State
Our Mission
The PolicyLab empowers the Utah Legislature with scientific research to support informed public policy while providing a training ground for future policy leaders.
Policy Insight & Guidance
Our team distills academic research into clear policy guidance, serving as a responsive resource for legislators to request specialized technical research. This ensures Utah’s leaders are prepared to navigate an ever-changing technological landscape.
How We Work
Ecosystem Convener
Serving as a statewide bridge, PolicyLab facilitates direct collaboration between university researchers and policymakers. We pursue high-level partnerships to advance our mission of converting high-impact research into real-world legislative solutions.
Workforce Development
By connecting academic research and legislative action, PolicyLab equips students with deep research skills and immersive experience engaging with legislative members. In doing so, the program cultivates the next generation of policy leaders prepared to drive meaningful change.
PolicyLab Internship
The PolicyLab Internship is designed for students ready to operate at the intersection of frontier research and state governance. Launched in January 2026, our inaugural cohort stands at the forefront of Utah's emerging innovation economy, observing the legislative process firsthand.
PolicyLab recruits from across Utah's institutions of higher education, welcoming students from all majors and disciplines. We believe that translating complex research into legislative guidance requires varied perspectives, from the sciences and engineering to public policy, communications, and beyond. Applications open each semester, and we encourage students at any stage of their academic journey to apply.
Jasmine Turner & Kefa Abakuki
From The Lab
Let’s Work Together
