Center for Contemporary History and Policy

The Center for Contemporary History and Policy identifies key issues at the intersections of science, technology, and medicine that can benefit from careful research, analysis, and new perspectives. We develop projects that mobilize history using archives, interviews, case studies, and oral histories in order to bring original perspectives on contemporary science and technology-based societal challenges. Our work and findings are packaged in multiple forms to meet the needs of diverse constituencies, including individuals in the private, public, and non-profit sectors, as well as current and future researchers. We expect to be a crucial partner for the exchange of ideas that are relevant to today’s issues as we fulfill CHF’s outreach mission.

Our staff utilizes tools developed in the fields of science and technology studies; the history of science, technology, and medicine; public history; and the arts to offer unique insights into contemporary science and technology issues, from the development of new materials to the role of federal policies in the development of pharmaceuticals. The oral history program provides a unifying structure of method – the use of in-depth interviews – which undergirds CCHP’s programmatic initiatives and connects us to CHF’s core collection and preservation mission.

Mission ›

Read the mission statement of the Center for Contemporary History and Policy. 

News and Events ›

See a calendar of upcoming events and conferences affiliated with the Center for Contemporary History and Policy and its staff, descriptions of our ongoing event series, and media from past events. 

Projects, Collections, & Exhibits ›

Find a full listing of past and present projects, as well as projects in their conceptual stages.   

Oral History Program ›

Discover CHF’s vast oral history collection, view and hear clips, search our collections, and order transcripts.

Publications ›

Download, view, or access information about publications from past and current staff members and Center fellows.

Staff ›

Learn more about the backgrounds and interests of Center for Contemporary History and Policy staff members, fellows, interns, and volunteers. 

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Need Meeting Space?

CHF’s state-of-the-art conference center is in Philadelphia’s beautiful historic district.

 

Hear It Firsthand

CHF’s Oral History Program captures and preserves the stories of notable figures in chemistry and related fields.

Fellowships at CHF


CHF’s scholars, who spend anywhere from one to nine months in residence, form a vital part of CHF’s intellectual life.

Historically Grounded Perspectives

The Center for Contemporary History and Policy explores issues ranging from energy to medicine on CHF's blog, Periodic Tabloid.