The Value of WSAS
Addressing complex problems requires an accurate understanding of the problem and useful predictions about the trade-offs of potential interventions. Gathering relevant information is challenging because it lies in silos and because it is difficult to judge the validity of various and sometimes conflicting information.
The Washington State Academy of Sciences (WSAS) was created by state law to serve as an independent source of scientific and technical information. WSAS acts as a nonpartisan convener and honest broker, mobilizing experts across Washington and beyond to bring the best available information to policymakers and practitioners to make evidence-informed decisions in the interest of the public.
Growing with AI
How can AI technologies contribute to a resilient, secure, and economically viable future for agriculture in the state of Washington?
In 2026 the Washington State Academy of Sciences is convening researchers, farmers, AI developers, policymakers, and innovators to explore how AI can shape agriculture’s future in Washington. Join our 6-part webinar series to learn about real-world applications and future possibilities for AI to enhance resilience, optimize resources, and secure our agricultural future.
A unique resource for Washington state
Established by the Washington State Legislature to serve as the science advisory body for the state.
The Washington State Legislature funded the Academy to conduct a study to determine the value of distributed solar and storage in Washington state in order to create recommendations and options for a methodology or methodologies that utility regulators and governing bodies may use after the statutory four percent net metering threshold is met.
The Academy received a grant from the National Conference of State Legislatures to support the planning of a science policy fellowship program in Washington State.
A transformational experience
Washington State Academy of Sciences
WSAS proudly supports and celebrates the next generation of scientific leaders through the Washington Junior Academy of Science (WAJAS) Program. This program recognizes exceptional high school students from across the state for outstanding original scientific research and offers opportunities to connect with the research community in Washington and beyond.
March 23, 2026
WSAS members Brian French (Regents Professor of Educational Psychology, WSU) and Philip Bell (Shauna C. Larson Endowed Chair Professor of Learning Sciences, UW) joined WSAS Executive Director Melanie Roberts in Olympia, alongside presenters from Washington STEM and the Pacific Science Center, to discuss “The Science of STEM Education” with the bipartisan, bicameral ScITech Caucus co-chaired by Senators Slatter, Victoria Hunt, and Matt Boehnke, and Representative Alex Ybarra.
January 23, 2026
A new initiative from the Washington State Academy of Sciences called Growing with AI will bring together the state’s tech giants and diverse farming community to tackle pressing challenges in the agriculture industry.
October 28, 2025
WAJAS is a WSAS program recognizing exceptional high school students from across the state for outstanding original scientific research and offering opportunities to connect with the research community in Washington and beyond. Fellows were publicly honored alongside Washington's top researchers at the WSAS 20th Anniversary Celebration on October 7.
