INSPECT Fellowship
Limited submission
INSPECT Fellowship supports graduate students in Indiana agency placements to bring scientific evidence into public-policy decisions and build skills as effective, nonpartisan science advisors.
Funder: Indiana Academy of Science
Due Dates: November 24, 2026 (Information session) | December 2, 2026 (Information session) | January 18, 2027 (IU Bloomington application) | February 15, 2027 (University finalist submissions)
Funding Amounts: At least $8,500 for 10 weeks; IU Bloomington provides $10,000
Summary: INSPECT places graduate students in Indiana executive agencies to bring scientific evidence into policy decisions and develop science-policy skills.
Key Information: Applicants must attend a partner university and commit to full-time work throughout the 10-week summer placement.
Description
The Indiana Science Policy: Educate, Collaborate, Transform (INSPECT) Fellowship is hosted by the Indiana Academy of Science. It connects graduate students with state government, training scientists to serve as effective, nonpartisan public-policy advisors. Fellows work alongside government personnel to incorporate scientific information into state and local decisions supporting Indiana’s long-term health, sustainability, and economic growth.
The 10-week summer program places fellows in Indiana executive agency host offices, approximately June 1 through mid-August, with orientation and training at the beginning and a reception at the conclusion. Work can include topical research, data analysis, policy development, scientific outreach, legislative drafts, and compiling technical information. Confirmed 2027 host offices include the Indiana Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Fish, Wildlife, and Nature Preserves and the Indiana Office of Energy Development.
