The principal goal of the Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes (CSPO) is to enhance the contribution of science and technology to an improved quality of life for the greatest number of people. Science policy-The process of making decisions about what science to do, who will do it, where it will be done, and who will use the results-crucially influences the types of benefits that science confers and the distribution of benefits. Science policy should therefore sit at the center of global debate and action on how to build a better world. That it remains at best a marginal part of public discourse and policy action is the principle motivation for CSPO.

As part of its effort to improve the capacity of science and technology policy to contribute to the public good, CSPO conducts and sponsors research; convenes conferences, workshops and other forums of public discourse; publishes its findings in a wide variety of media; and interacts continually with the makers of science and technology policy. The V. Kann Rasmussen Foundation's grant supports the full array of the center's efforts to foster policies that can help decision-makers and institutions grapple with the immense power and importance of science and technology. With the Foundation's support, CSPO will focus in coming years on two major problem areas: sustainable development and technological innovation. In addition, education and outreach activities will continue to be integral to CSPO's activities. Creation of a new generation of "outcomes-oriented" scientists and science-policy makers, and cultivation of informed public discourse on science policy, are also at the center of CSPO's mission.

For more information visit: www.cspo.org