Career Preparation: Policy

Fellowships & Internships

Geoscientists wishing to work in Congress can get their foot in the door through congressional fellowships, which help build important skills in science policy while introducing scientists to the legislative process. Congressional fellowships also provide an opportunity to network with legislators and other potential employers in government agencies.

Additional internship and fellowship opportunities with professional societies or academic institutions offer similar benefits to those interested in careers beyond Capitol Hill, often leading to employment in government or private organizations.

NOAA Sea Grant Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship
For graduate students interested in policy related to ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources. Visit website >
AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowship
For scientists interested in working in federal policy. Visit website >
Presidential Management Fellows Program
A leadership development program that offers a pathway into federal government roles. Visit website >
AMS Congressional Science Fellowship
For atmospheric scientists interested in working in Congress. Visit website >
ASU Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes Internship
Internship in Washington, D.C. for students preparing for a leadership role in science policy. Visit website >
AGI Geoscience Policy Internship
For students or entry-level graduates seeking experience in federal policy. Visit website >
AGI William L. Fisher Congressional Geoscience Fellowship
For graduate students interested in legislation on Capitol Hill. Visit website >
AGU Congressional Science Fellowship
For graduates (mainly those with a doctoral degree) seeking experience working in Congress. Visit website >
GSA Congressional Science Fellowship
For graduates with a Ph.D. or M.S. interested in working as a staff member in Congress. Visit website >
Institute for Defense Analyses - Science and Technology Policy Institute Fellowship
A two-year fellowship for recent bachelor's or master's degree recipients. Visit website >
Institute for Defense Analyses - Summer Associate Internships
For undergraduate and graduate students interested in working on national security issues. Visit website >

Find additional U.S. Science & Technology Policy Fellowships listed on the Johns Hopkins Science Policy & Diplomacy Group website. These include fellowships hosted by member societies, federal and state governments, universities, non-profit groups, and industry.

Broad scientific background with the ability to clearly communicate scientific concepts to a general audience.
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to function well under pressure, work quickly, and multitask
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with people from diverse professional backgrounds

Working in science policy requires excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work on a variety of issues in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Students applying for internships, fellowships, or entry-level positions should clearly demonstrate these skills in their applications and seek recommendations from employers or professors who can speak to their strengths in these areas with specific examples.

Ready to apply?

Check out the American Association of Petroleum Geologists Career Learning Center and Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology Career Resources for advice on writing job applications and preparing for interviews.

For more resources, check out your university's career center or library. Most universities have published guides for resume/CV writing, interviewing, negotiating, and more. You can also look online for contacts in your campus career center or reach out to mentors for support with your applications.

About

GROW is a collection of career resources for undergraduate and graduate students in the geosciences, intended to help students identify and pursue career paths beyond academia.

Support

This project was supported by the National Science Foundation (Award #1911527) and our many contributors who generously volunteered their time and knowledge to assist our team.

Disclaimer

Any opinions, findings, and recommendations expressed here are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation nor of contributor employers.

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