Two US bills introduced on 8 May, one in the Senate and one in the House of Representatives, would create a national post to promote science education and scientific achievement. The Science Laureate would be a working researcher who would talk to citizens about science's crucial role in the economy and the need for financial support, says Nathan Click, a spokesman for Senator Mazie Hirono (Democrat, Hawaii), who is a co-sponsor of the Senate bill. “If the public begins to value basic research, that percolates up to lawmakers,” says Click. The laureate would also present highlights from his or her own work to inspire young people to pursue science degrees. “We want to get students and communities energized about cutting-edge research and give them role models,” says Click.