Why be a fellow?
AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships (STPF) provide opportunities to outstanding scientists and engineers to learn first-hand about policymaking while contributing their knowledge and analytical skills to the federal policymaking process. Fellows serve yearlong assignments in the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the federal government in Washington. Each year, the program adds to a growing corps approximately 4,000 strong of policy-savvy leaders working across academia, government, nonprofits and industry to serve the nation and the world.
Watch the video series about life as a fellow, how to apply, and more!
Benefits of being a fellow
Gain hands-on policy experience in a challenging assignment.
This fellowship is a transformative career opportunity. Fellows are a respected and coveted cadre in the federal policy arena. See what fellows and alumni accomplish in our newsletter, Fellowship Focus, and on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Become a member of an influential network of fellows.
The AAAS S&T Policy Fellow network is a powerful force in every realm: government, industry, academia, and the nonprofit sector. Current fellows convene regularly for Professional Development workshops, manage Affinity Groups, and network and share resources. Alumni participate in a number of activities including symposia, networking, and Affinity Groups. All fellows use FellowsCentral, a password-protected online community, to connect and collaborate with each other, publish the Sci on the Fly blog and podcast, and more.
Receive a stipend.
$89,000 to $116,000 per year, along with other support including reimbursement for health care insurance.
Develop new skills.
Every fellowship includes a yearlong Professional Development program. Commencing with a two-week orientation, a series of trainings and workshops in the areas of policy and the federal government, leadership, communication, and networking and career strategies are intended to foster fellows’ development as science policy leaders. The professional development curriculum is designed around specific learning goals and objectives designed to maximize success in the fellowship and beyond.
Experience life in the nation’s capital.
Washington calls! Some fellows also have the opportunity to travel nationally and overseas for their host office.
Lead.
Fellows run a variety of Affinity Groups that focus on a wide range of policy issues. Activities range from planning and promoting presentations by distinguished guest speakers, to workshops, symposia and multi-day conferences.
Get published.
Sci on the Fly is a fellow-run, high-traffic blog and podcast that highlights fellows' work and perspectives. Many fellows also have opportunities with their host office to publish reports and other media.
Expand your career options.
Learn about career opportunities in academia, nonprofit, government, and the private sector throughout your fellowship, at the STPF career summit, and via the STPF career email list.
Get involved with AAAS.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science offers a wealth of resources from career services and events, to volunteer opportunities and late-breaking science news and analysis. Many of these resources are particularly useful to DC locals who can participate in person.