With the complex interactions between science, politics and society increasing every day, it is becoming more important for ecologists to understand how decisions made at the intersections of the three shape their career choices and professional lives. Scientists who understand the goals and implications of publicly funded science will likely have an advantage choosing and pursuing careers that better match their interests, strengths and training; with or without field work. This workshop is primarily geared toward graduate students and early career scientists but is potentially of interest to anyone who wants to know more about the science-policy connection. It will be broken out into five sections with speakers and panelists from academia, government, and the non-profit sectors addressing each topic: (1) Public Funding of Science and the State of Ecology Funding – how are science funding decisions made? Who makes them?; (2) Challenges to Ecology Governance Presented by Emerging Technologies - how can ecologists contribute to the policy and governance discussions of emerging technologies like nanotechnology, geoengineering, and synthetic biology that have the potential to radically alter our social and eco systems?; (3) Doing Science in Lean Times – how do we deliver excellent and socially beneficial science in the face of budget cuts?; (4)The Role of Ecologists in the Policy Process – what potential careers or other opportunities do ecologists have in getting involved in the policy process?; and (5) Usable Science - how can you engage with stakeholders without compromising scientific integrity; communicate without advocating?