[American Astronomical Society](https://aas.org)

January 13, 2025 (AIP Congressional Fellowship)

$86,100 stipend for one year | $3,000 relocation/professional expenses | Health insurance reimbursement

One-year fellowships placing physical scientists in Congress to provide technical expertise and learn federal policy-making.

PhD in physics or closely related field and AIP Member Society membership required; U.S. work authorization required.

--- ## Description The AIP Science Policy Fellowships provide scientists and engineers with the opportunity to spend one year working as staffers in the U.S. Congress. Fellows contribute their technical expertise to legislative and policy processes, working on issues such as science diplomacy, climate change, weapons nonproliferation, and legislative analysis. The program is designed to give scientists hands-on experience with federal policy-making, enhance their careers, and strengthen the connection between the scientific community and government. --- ## Due Dates - Application Deadline: January 13, 2025 (for the 2025–2026 fellowship term) --- ## Funding Amount - Annual stipend: $86,100 - Initial allowance: $3,000 (for relocation or other fellowship-related expenses) - Reimbursement for in-service travel or professional development (up to a specified maximum) - Reimbursement for health insurance premiums (up to a specified maximum) - Fellowship duration: 1 year (typically September–August) --- ## Eligibility - Membership in at least one of the [AIP Member Societies](https://www.aip.org/member-societies) at the time of application - PhD in physics or a closely related physical science (degree must be earned before the fellowship begins) - Legal authorization to work in the U.S. (AIP does not sponsor work visas) - Strong scientific record and demonstrated interest or experience in applying scientific knowledge to societal problems - Excellent interpersonal and communication skills - Ability to handle varied assignments, both technical and non-technical - Individuals at all career stages, including mid- and late-career professionals, are encouraged to apply --- ## Application Process - All materials must be submitted online via the [AIP/APS application portal](https://aip-aps-asa.smapply.io/prog/aip_only_/) - Required materials: - Application form - Letter of intent (max 2 pages) explaining motivation, background, policy interest, and qualifications - Resume (max 2 pages, with 1 additional page for key publications) - Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your professional competence and suitability - Applicants are responsible for ensuring all materials, including recommendation letters, are received by the deadline - Shared application system with APS: applicants can apply to AIP, APS, or both, but each program has separate selection processes --- ## Additional Information - Fellowship term begins with a mandatory two-week orientation in Washington, DC (organized by AAAS) - Fellows interview with Congressional offices to determine placement - Full-time commitment required; some arrangements for sabbatical/leave from current employer may be possible - Past fellows have been placed in offices of senators, representatives, and Congressional committees --- ## External Links - [AIP Congressional Science Policy Fellowships – Program Details](https://www.aip.org/aip/awards/congressional-science-policy-fellowships) - [AIP/APS Application Portal](https://aip-aps-asa.smapply.io/prog/aip_only_/) - [AIP Science Policy Fellowships – General Information](https://www.aip.org/policy/fellowships/congressional) - [AIP Member Societies](https://www.aip.org/member-societies) - [Recent Fellows and Placements](https://www.aip.org/aip/awards/congressional-science-policy-fellowships) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Role | |-------------------|---------------------------------|---------------|---------------------| | Liz Dart Caron | lcaron@aip.org | (301) 209-3034| Chief of Staff, AIP | | Program Inquiries | scipolicyfellows@aip.org | | Fellowship Contact | For additional questions, see the [AIP contact page](https://aas.org/contact). ---

AIP Science Policy Fellowships

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