Fellows who transition into government in elected, appointed, and civil service posts; nongovernmental organizations; and industry, also take leadership roles applying and communicating science broadly. Chris Rothfuss, who served as a fellow in the State Department from 2003-05, was invigorated to run for higher office.
In his initial bid for senate, he blogged:
“[Wyoming residents] said Wyoming needed my expertise as a chemical engineer to help shape our state’s energy future. They understood the value of my technical training, my relationship with the University of Wyoming, and my experience as a science advisor and diplomat at the U.S. Department of State, and they encouraged me to remain engaged in Wyoming politics.”
As a fellow, Rothfuss was responsible for providing scientific advice and analysis to aid in the development of U.S. foreign policy on issues including remote sensing, missile technology export control, and advanced energy technologies. His primary responsibilities were as the senior nanotechnology advisor for the Department, and as a U.S. delegate to the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).
As state senator, he recently sponsored and passed legislation forming an executive-legislative taskforce that will prepare digital information privacy legislation for the state of Wyoming.
Watch this video to hear Rothfuss’ perspective on his fellowship years.
Click to learn more about the AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships.