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The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) and the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) co-sponsor the Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship to give genetics professionals an opportunity to contribute to the policy-making process.

Recruitment for the 2022-23 fellowship is now closed. We will begin accepting applications for the 2023-24 fellowship in February.

Overview

The extent to which the discoveries from genetics and genomics research are translated into the improved health of the American people is greatly influenced by policy decisions guiding research and the integration of genetics and genomics tools in the clinical setting.

The Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship is designed as a bridge for genetics professionals wishing to transition to a policy career. This unique fellowship provides three separate types of experiences: time spent in the National Institutes of Health within the Executive Branch; a staff position on Capitol Hill serving elected officials in the Legislative Branch; and experience working with ASHG in the non-profit science advocacy sector. This variety of assignments provides experience for fellows in multiple areas of policy-making and helps build a professional network that advances their careers in policy.

This is a fellowship program designed for genetics professionals with an advanced degree who are early in their careers and interested in the development and implementation of genetics-related health and research policies at a national level.

Duration of Fellowship: 16 months
Start Date: Late August to September 1
Compensation Package: annual $76k stipend plus benefits

For more information, view Frequently Asked Questions about the Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship.

  • Overview

    The extent to which the discoveries from genetics and genomics research are translated into the improved health of the American people is greatly influenced by policy decisions guiding research and the integration of genetics and genomics tools in the clinical setting.

    The Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship is designed as a bridge for genetics professionals wishing to transition to a policy career. This unique fellowship provides three separate types of experiences: time spent in the National Institutes of Health within the Executive Branch; a staff position on Capitol Hill serving elected officials in the Legislative Branch; and experience working with ASHG in the non-profit science advocacy sector. This variety of assignments provides experience for fellows in multiple areas of policy-making and helps build a professional network that advances their careers in policy.

    This is a fellowship program designed for genetics professionals with an advanced degree who are early in their careers and interested in the development and implementation of genetics-related health and research policies at a national level.

    Duration of Fellowship: 16 months
    Start Date: Late August to September 1
    Compensation Package: annual $76k stipend plus benefits

    For more information, view Frequently Asked Questions about the Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship.

Selection Process

A committee of representatives from ASHG and NHGRI will review application materials, interview finalists, and recommend up to three candidates to the organizational leaders for the final selection decision. Candidates are asked in the application materials to explain their motivation, areas of interest, and future plans.

Candidates are expected to have an advanced degree in human genetics or related field. Exceptional applicants with other advanced degrees and clearly demonstrated experience-based knowledge in science policy could be considered. Ideally, candidates will have completed graduate training, but be early in the career development path. In addition to possessing a scientific knowledge base, the candidate must have a well-articulated interest in policy. Demonstrated skills in oral and written communications are essential. United States citizenship is not required, but candidates must be eligible to work in in the U.S. (i.e., the fellowship organizations will not sponsor visas).

Questions about applying for the ASHG/NHGRI Fellowship can be directed to:

Cristina Kapustij, M.S.
Chief, Policy and Program Analysis Branch
National Human Genome Research Institute
E-mail: cristina.kapustij@nih.gov

Derek Scholes, Ph.D.
Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy
American Society of Human Genetics
E-mail: dscholes@ashg.org

  • Selection Process

    A committee of representatives from ASHG and NHGRI will review application materials, interview finalists, and recommend up to three candidates to the organizational leaders for the final selection decision. Candidates are asked in the application materials to explain their motivation, areas of interest, and future plans.

    Candidates are expected to have an advanced degree in human genetics or related field. Exceptional applicants with other advanced degrees and clearly demonstrated experience-based knowledge in science policy could be considered. Ideally, candidates will have completed graduate training, but be early in the career development path. In addition to possessing a scientific knowledge base, the candidate must have a well-articulated interest in policy. Demonstrated skills in oral and written communications are essential. United States citizenship is not required, but candidates must be eligible to work in in the U.S. (i.e., the fellowship organizations will not sponsor visas).

    Questions about applying for the ASHG/NHGRI Fellowship can be directed to:

    Cristina Kapustij, M.S.
    Chief, Policy and Program Analysis Branch
    National Human Genome Research Institute
    E-mail: cristina.kapustij@nih.gov

    Derek Scholes, Ph.D.
    Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy
    American Society of Human Genetics
    E-mail: dscholes@ashg.org

Activities

The activities of the fellow will vary with each rotation. They will include research and analysis on a wide range of policy issues impacting biomedical research and its clinical application, and summarizing those analyses for different audiences. Writing tasks may include crafting new policy position statements, preparing testimony, summarizing legislation and drafting speeches. The fellow will participate in a variety of forums and will be expected to represent the involved organizations effectively in individual meetings and larger settings.

Rotations 2022-2023 Fellowship

  • September - December
    Policy and Program Analysis Branch, Office of the Director, at NHGRI: Participate on a variety of projects related to genomics policies and other activities such as the development of the federal budget.
     
  • January - September
    Advocacy at ASHG: Work within the ASHG Policy and Advocacy department on Society advocacy initiatives and on policy issues related to genetics research, the use of genetics in the clinic, and the non-clinical applications of genetics in society.
     
  • May - December
    Congressional office and/or Committee: Work within the office of a Member of Congress or a Congressional committee with jurisdiction over biomedical research, health, or science. Fellows determine their positions based on availability and their own interests, and participate fully in staff functions during this time.

Current and Former Fellows

 

The fellowship offers candidates an opportunity to develop a desirable skillset and build a professional network over the course of three enriching experiences.

 

Year Fellow Current Employer Title Office Rotation in Congress
2021 Katherine Nichole Holm ASHG/NHGRI Genetics and Public Policy Fellow To Be Determined
2020 Emma Alme Guardian Health Public Policy Director Rep. Anna Eshoo
2019 Sammy Katta National Institute of General Medical Sciences Scientific Legislative & Policy Analyst Senate HELP Committee
2018 Eve Granatosky Lewis-Burke Associates, LLC Principal Sen. Richard Blumenthal
2017 Nikki Meadows National Heart Lung and Blood Institute - FOIA/PA Office Policy Analyst Rep. Louise Slaughter/Senate HELP Committee
2016 Christa Wagner Association of American Medical Colleges Manager, Government Relations Sen. Sherrod Brown
2015 Caroline Young NIH Office of Science Policy Senior Health Science Policy Analyst Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse
2014 Katherine Blizinsky Rush University and NIH - All of Us Research Program Assistant Professor and Policy Director Sen. Patty Murray
2013 Katherine Donigan Biotechnology Innovation Organization Senior Director, Science and Regulatory Affairs Sen. Elizabeth Warren
2012 Laura Koontz

Foundation Medicine

Senior Director of Policy Rep. Louise Slaughter
2011 Cristina Kapustij NIH - National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) Chief, Policy and Program Analysis Branch Rep. John Dingell
2010 Kyle Brown Colorado Division of Insurance Head of Affordability Programs Senate HELP Committee
2009 Selvi Sriranganathan Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States Certified Genetic Counselor Rep. Eddie Bernice-Johnson
2008 Sara Selgrade NIH - National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) Section Chief for Legislative Activities Senate HELP Committee
2007 Pam Bradley

Adaptive Biotechnologies

Vice President, Policy & Advocacy Senate HELP Committee
2006 Ed Ramos Scripps Research Institute Director of Digital Clinical Trials Sen. Barack Obama
2005 Derek Scholes ASHG Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy Senate HELP Committee
2004 Mike Stebbins ASCO CancerLinQ Chief of Staff Senate Minority Leaders Office
2003 Jennifer Leib

Innovation Policy Solutions, LLC

Founder and CEO Senate HELP Committee
2002 Daryl Pritchard Personalized Medicine Coalition Senior Vice President, Science Policy Rep. Louise Slaughter

Testimonials

This fellowship has given me hands-on experience in applying my training as a scientist in policy contexts, as well as a deeper understanding of the realities of the policy-making process. I’ve learned that scientific evidence is often one of many factors that influences a policy decision, and being able to strategically consider the broader context of a particular action will help me to be a stronger advocate for science in the future.

Eve Granatosky

Eve Granatosky

2018 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

 

I had some amazing opportunities during the course of this fellowship. I’ve gained so much from this program, both personally and professionally, that I am forever changed by it.

Nikki Meadows

Nikki Meadows

2017 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

 

The ASHG/NHGRI Fellowship has provided me with a diverse array of experiences, both in terms of topics covered and settings in which I worked on policy. The Fellowship provides an exceptional experience for those with a background in genetics to play a role in effective policymaking. It also made me a more marketable applicant for policy positions beyond the fellowship.

Christa Wagner

Christa Wagner

2016 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

 

The ASHG/NHGRI Policy Fellowship provided me with diverse learning opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the formation and analysis of health and science policy. It provided a unique opportunity to take on varied roles within the science and health policy landscape, allowing me to experience the pros and cons of working in each setting and helping me to crystallize my thinking on where I might want to go next. It also made me a more marketable applicant for policy positions beyond the fellowship.

Caroline Young

Caroline Young

2015 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

 

The ASHG/NHGRI Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship was without exaggeration a life-changing experience. My fellowship allowed me to take my background in genetics research and translate it into a career as a public policy professional at a national cancer patient advocacy organization. Not only has the experience been invaluable, the network of fellows I've joined as an alumna are among the best policy professionals in D.C. The fellowship has also allowed me to fully realize my commitment to bettering the lives and treatment of people with cancer - the reason I got into scientific research in the first place!

Laura Koontz

Laura Koontz

2012 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

 

I've gained a very desirable skillset and professional network only achievable by doing the work I was given. I will use the tools this experience has given me in every aspect of my career. This fellowship has created a group of impressive policy makers networked into the genetics community that is a force to be reckoned with in Washington, DC. And our numbers grow every year.

Cristina Kapustij

Cristina Kapustij

2011 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

 

One of the most valuable things about the fellowship has been the group of former fellows, most of whom are still working in policy in or near Washington, D.C. They are an amazing resource and a testament to how the fellowship prepares you for a variety of rewarding careers at the intersection of science and policy.

Sara Selgrade

Sara Selgrade

2008 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

  • Testimonials

    This fellowship has given me hands-on experience in applying my training as a scientist in policy contexts, as well as a deeper understanding of the realities of the policy-making process. I’ve learned that scientific evidence is often one of many factors that influences a policy decision, and being able to strategically consider the broader context of a particular action will help me to be a stronger advocate for science in the future.

    Eve Granatosky

    Eve Granatosky

    2018 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

     

    I had some amazing opportunities during the course of this fellowship. I’ve gained so much from this program, both personally and professionally, that I am forever changed by it.

    Nikki Meadows

    Nikki Meadows

    2017 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

     

    The ASHG/NHGRI Fellowship has provided me with a diverse array of experiences, both in terms of topics covered and settings in which I worked on policy. The Fellowship provides an exceptional experience for those with a background in genetics to play a role in effective policymaking. It also made me a more marketable applicant for policy positions beyond the fellowship.

    Christa Wagner

    Christa Wagner

    2016 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

     

    The ASHG/NHGRI Policy Fellowship provided me with diverse learning opportunities and the chance to contribute meaningfully to the formation and analysis of health and science policy. It provided a unique opportunity to take on varied roles within the science and health policy landscape, allowing me to experience the pros and cons of working in each setting and helping me to crystallize my thinking on where I might want to go next. It also made me a more marketable applicant for policy positions beyond the fellowship.

    Caroline Young

    Caroline Young

    2015 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

     

    The ASHG/NHGRI Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship was without exaggeration a life-changing experience. My fellowship allowed me to take my background in genetics research and translate it into a career as a public policy professional at a national cancer patient advocacy organization. Not only has the experience been invaluable, the network of fellows I've joined as an alumna are among the best policy professionals in D.C. The fellowship has also allowed me to fully realize my commitment to bettering the lives and treatment of people with cancer - the reason I got into scientific research in the first place!

    Laura Koontz

    Laura Koontz

    2012 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

     

    I've gained a very desirable skillset and professional network only achievable by doing the work I was given. I will use the tools this experience has given me in every aspect of my career. This fellowship has created a group of impressive policy makers networked into the genetics community that is a force to be reckoned with in Washington, DC. And our numbers grow every year.

    Cristina Kapustij

    Cristina Kapustij

    2011 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

     

    One of the most valuable things about the fellowship has been the group of former fellows, most of whom are still working in policy in or near Washington, D.C. They are an amazing resource and a testament to how the fellowship prepares you for a variety of rewarding careers at the intersection of science and policy.

    Sara Selgrade

    Sara Selgrade

    2008 ASHG/NHGRI Fellow

Other Policy Fellowships and Interns

NHGRI regularly receives inquiries from geneticists and genomicists interested in pursuing science and health policy, but who are not eligible for the NHGRI/ASHG Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship. To assist such individuals, NHGRI has compiled a list of other policy-related fellowships and internships that may be of interest.

Undergraduates

NSF Summer Scholars Internship
Summer Scholars students come through outside organizations including Hispanic Association of Colleges and UniversitiesQuality Education for Minorities Network, and Washington Internships for Native Students

Potomac Institute for Policy Studies
Interns will work with the Intern Coordinator to identify an independent research project related to science and technology policy and assist with research, writing, planning, and organizational activities that support the Institute's mission.

Early Career (Masters or Ph.D. or M.D.)

AAAS Fellowships
Executive Branch agencies with a range of policy portfolios (incl. NIH, NSF, HHS, others) host Fellows for one-year. Congressional Fellows spend one year serving on the staffs of Members of Congress or congressional committees, in legislative areas that would benefit from scientific and technical analysis and perspective. Both have a paid annual stipend with allowances for benefits. Doctoral level degree required.

American Medical Association
Government Relations Advocacy Fellowship for medical students to work as a full-time paid member of the AMA's federal advocacy team for one-year.

American Academy for Microbiology Colloquium Fellowship
This year long Fellowship is for a recent microbiology Ph.D. recipient to further develop skills in science communication and public outreach.

American Academy of Arts and Sciences Hellman Fellowship
One-year paid fellowship for early career scientists (must have a PhD). Fellow will work with senior scientists and policy experts on critical national and international policy issues related to science, engineering, and technology.

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Paid 1-2 year fellowship for recently graduated PhDs to work in public affairs office of ASBMB's headquarters.

California Science and Technology Policy Fellowships
The California Council on Science and Technology places scientists (Ph.D. or equivalent experience) and engineers in the California State Legislature for one-year appointments with stipend.

David A. Winston Health Policy Fellowship
One-year fellowship to recent graduates from member institutions (Association of University Programs in Health Administration) with a minimum master's degree. The post-graduate program introduces fellows to public- and private-sector functions in health policy development in D.C.

FDA Commissioner's Fellowship Program
Two-year paid fellowship for individuals with doctoral-level training, where they will receive regulatory science training and the chance to conduct cutting-edge research on targeted scientific, policy or regulatory issues under the mentorship of an FDA senior scientist.

Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship
Paid 16-month fellowship sponsored by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) and the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). The program is designed for early-career genetics professionals with advanced degrees. The fellow will have the opportunity to participate in policy analysis at NHGRI and ASHG, and to work directly within the U.S. Congress.

Mongan Commonwealth Fund Fellowship Program (Cambridge, Mass.)
One-year fellowship (with second year practicum extension option) with stipend for the study of minority health policy at Harvard Medical School for doctors (M.D. required) interested in pursuing a career in policy or public service.

Christine Mirzayan Science and Technology Policy Graduate Fellowship
Paid, 12-week fellowship for early-career individuals (graduate enrollment or degree required) to work at the National Academies and learn about science and technology policy.

Presidential Management Fellow
Funded leadership development program at the entry level for advanced degree candidates. Fellows serve in a variety of government agencies including NIH, among others. Can serve as a pathway to federal employment.

Satcher Health Leadership Institute
Ten-month paid program for post-doctoral students to learn science policy curriculum at Morehouse School of Medicine

The Royal Society (U.K.) MP-Scientist Pairing Scheme
Research scientists from the UK (applicants are required to have at least two years postdoctoral research experience) are paired with MPs and civil servants for reciprocal visits and communication.

The Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Health Policy
A ten-month postdoctoral fellowship for research about contemporary health or healthcare policy in two or more countries of the Asia-Pacific, including the social and economic implications of demographic change.

Mid-career (Ph.D. with experience, faculty position)

American Society for Microbiology Congressional Science Fellowship
Paid one-year fellowship for mid-career microbiologists to work on the staff of an individual congressman, congressional committee, or with some other appropriate organizational unit of Congress.

Australian-American Health Policy Fellowships Program
Ten-month paid fellowship for mid-career U.S. professionals of various disciplines to conduct research and work with Australian health policy experts on issues relevant to both countries.

National Academies Jefferson Science Fellowships
Paid one-year fellowship for tenured, or similarly ranked, academic scientists, engineers and physicians from U.S. institutions of higher learning to spend one year at the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for an on-site assignment in Washington, D.C. that may also involve extended stays at U.S. foreign embassies and/or missions.

The Robert Wood Johnson Health Policy Fellowships Program
Year-long paid residential fellowship for mid-career health professionals and behavioral and social scientists with an interest in health and health care policy. Fellows experience and participate in the policy process at the federal level and use that leadership experience to improve health, health care, and health policy.

Available for Range of Degrees

Belfer Center, Harvard University
Funded one-year research fellowships in science, technology, and public policy, with a possibility for renewal. Fellowships are available to pre-doctoral students and post-doctoral researchers and professionals.

Bioethics Fellowships for Pre- and Post-doctoral Candidates
Fellows conduct mentored theoretical and empirical research in the ethics of health policy, international research ethics, human subjects research, genetics, or other fields of interest.

Center for American Progress ScienceProgress.org Internship
Quarterly internships (Summer/Fall/Winter/Spring) for all education backgrounds, with stipend.

Health and Aging Policy Fellowship
Year-long, paid program for range of junior and senior scientists, academics, and health care providers. The residential track allows fellows to participate in the policymaking process on either the Federal or state level as legislative assistants in Congress, professional staff members in executive branch agencies or policy organizations. The non-residential track allows fellows to remain at their home institution but work on a policy project that involves brief placement(s) throughout the year at relevant sites.

OSTP Internship Program
Up to three month unpaid internship with the Office of Science and Technology Policy, which advises the President on the effects of science and technology on domestic and international affairs. Assignments provide educational enrichment, practical work experience, and network opportunities with other individuals in the science and technology policy arena.

Phoebe S. Leboy Public Policy Fellowship
Two-year salaried fellowship to work in Washington, D.C., as a full-time team member of the Association for Women in Science National Office. Some example duties include tracking legislation and analyzing policy issues at the nexus of gender and science, working with key AWIS advocacy partners including scientific and engineering societies, representing AWIS at key coalition meetings and conferences, and developing talking points, letters, and other advocacy documents. For more information, contact Janet Bandows Koster, Executive Director & CEO, at koster@awis.org

Research!America
Three-month internship, with stipend, in the office of the Director of Science Policy to assist the organization with its mission to make research to improve health a higher national priority through education, advocacy and public policy activities. Internship is available for college seniors, graduate students or recent graduates and a fellowship is available to those with a Ph.D.

Science and Technology Policy Institute
The Science Policy Fellowship Program at the Science and Technology Policy Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a two-year fellowship where recipients work with researchers on analyses related to science and technology policy. Fellows may be involved in research for the Office of Science and Technology Policy and for federal agencies like the National Science Foundation and the NIH.

Congressional Offices

Additional opportunities to get involved in science policy are available through federal or state legislators. Look into working for a senator or representative on science and health policy or go through the different congressional committee/subcommittees involving health/science policy:

Senate Committees
House Committees

National Institutes of Health (For Intramural Fellows)

Detail Opportunities in the Office of Extramural Programs
Unpaid detail (3-6 months) open to intramural postdocs (currently at NIH) interested in learning about research training programs and policies. Work 12-16 hours a week with the NIH Extramural Research Training Officer and staff, and attend monthly meetings of the NIH-wide Training Advisory Committee. Discuss the possibility of a detail with your PI and ensure that you can be temporarily spared from your other assignments. Then send an e-mail and your CV to Jennifer Sutton, Extramural Program Policy and Evaluation Officer, at suttonj@mail.nih.gov.

Fellowship Opportunities in Federal Technology Transfer
For postdoctoral fellows who currently hold an IRTA or CRTA position at the NIH and who want to make the transition to a career in technology transfer. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must commit two years to the program.

Opportunities for Short Administrative Assignments at the NIH
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) and several components of the Office of the Director offer current postdoctoral trainees at the NIH the opportunity to spend three months on an administrative or science policy detail.

  • Other Policy Fellowships and Interns

    NHGRI regularly receives inquiries from geneticists and genomicists interested in pursuing science and health policy, but who are not eligible for the NHGRI/ASHG Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship. To assist such individuals, NHGRI has compiled a list of other policy-related fellowships and internships that may be of interest.

    Undergraduates

    NSF Summer Scholars Internship
    Summer Scholars students come through outside organizations including Hispanic Association of Colleges and UniversitiesQuality Education for Minorities Network, and Washington Internships for Native Students

    Potomac Institute for Policy Studies
    Interns will work with the Intern Coordinator to identify an independent research project related to science and technology policy and assist with research, writing, planning, and organizational activities that support the Institute's mission.

    Early Career (Masters or Ph.D. or M.D.)

    AAAS Fellowships
    Executive Branch agencies with a range of policy portfolios (incl. NIH, NSF, HHS, others) host Fellows for one-year. Congressional Fellows spend one year serving on the staffs of Members of Congress or congressional committees, in legislative areas that would benefit from scientific and technical analysis and perspective. Both have a paid annual stipend with allowances for benefits. Doctoral level degree required.

    American Medical Association
    Government Relations Advocacy Fellowship for medical students to work as a full-time paid member of the AMA's federal advocacy team for one-year.

    American Academy for Microbiology Colloquium Fellowship
    This year long Fellowship is for a recent microbiology Ph.D. recipient to further develop skills in science communication and public outreach.

    American Academy of Arts and Sciences Hellman Fellowship
    One-year paid fellowship for early career scientists (must have a PhD). Fellow will work with senior scientists and policy experts on critical national and international policy issues related to science, engineering, and technology.

    American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
    Paid 1-2 year fellowship for recently graduated PhDs to work in public affairs office of ASBMB's headquarters.

    California Science and Technology Policy Fellowships
    The California Council on Science and Technology places scientists (Ph.D. or equivalent experience) and engineers in the California State Legislature for one-year appointments with stipend.

    David A. Winston Health Policy Fellowship
    One-year fellowship to recent graduates from member institutions (Association of University Programs in Health Administration) with a minimum master's degree. The post-graduate program introduces fellows to public- and private-sector functions in health policy development in D.C.

    FDA Commissioner's Fellowship Program
    Two-year paid fellowship for individuals with doctoral-level training, where they will receive regulatory science training and the chance to conduct cutting-edge research on targeted scientific, policy or regulatory issues under the mentorship of an FDA senior scientist.

    Genetics and Public Policy Fellowship
    Paid 16-month fellowship sponsored by the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) and the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). The program is designed for early-career genetics professionals with advanced degrees. The fellow will have the opportunity to participate in policy analysis at NHGRI and ASHG, and to work directly within the U.S. Congress.

    Mongan Commonwealth Fund Fellowship Program (Cambridge, Mass.)
    One-year fellowship (with second year practicum extension option) with stipend for the study of minority health policy at Harvard Medical School for doctors (M.D. required) interested in pursuing a career in policy or public service.

    Christine Mirzayan Science and Technology Policy Graduate Fellowship
    Paid, 12-week fellowship for early-career individuals (graduate enrollment or degree required) to work at the National Academies and learn about science and technology policy.

    Presidential Management Fellow
    Funded leadership development program at the entry level for advanced degree candidates. Fellows serve in a variety of government agencies including NIH, among others. Can serve as a pathway to federal employment.

    Satcher Health Leadership Institute
    Ten-month paid program for post-doctoral students to learn science policy curriculum at Morehouse School of Medicine

    The Royal Society (U.K.) MP-Scientist Pairing Scheme
    Research scientists from the UK (applicants are required to have at least two years postdoctoral research experience) are paired with MPs and civil servants for reciprocal visits and communication.

    The Walter H. Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center Postdoctoral Fellowship in Comparative Health Policy
    A ten-month postdoctoral fellowship for research about contemporary health or healthcare policy in two or more countries of the Asia-Pacific, including the social and economic implications of demographic change.

    Mid-career (Ph.D. with experience, faculty position)

    American Society for Microbiology Congressional Science Fellowship
    Paid one-year fellowship for mid-career microbiologists to work on the staff of an individual congressman, congressional committee, or with some other appropriate organizational unit of Congress.

    Australian-American Health Policy Fellowships Program
    Ten-month paid fellowship for mid-career U.S. professionals of various disciplines to conduct research and work with Australian health policy experts on issues relevant to both countries.

    National Academies Jefferson Science Fellowships
    Paid one-year fellowship for tenured, or similarly ranked, academic scientists, engineers and physicians from U.S. institutions of higher learning to spend one year at the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for an on-site assignment in Washington, D.C. that may also involve extended stays at U.S. foreign embassies and/or missions.

    The Robert Wood Johnson Health Policy Fellowships Program
    Year-long paid residential fellowship for mid-career health professionals and behavioral and social scientists with an interest in health and health care policy. Fellows experience and participate in the policy process at the federal level and use that leadership experience to improve health, health care, and health policy.

    Available for Range of Degrees

    Belfer Center, Harvard University
    Funded one-year research fellowships in science, technology, and public policy, with a possibility for renewal. Fellowships are available to pre-doctoral students and post-doctoral researchers and professionals.

    Bioethics Fellowships for Pre- and Post-doctoral Candidates
    Fellows conduct mentored theoretical and empirical research in the ethics of health policy, international research ethics, human subjects research, genetics, or other fields of interest.

    Center for American Progress ScienceProgress.org Internship
    Quarterly internships (Summer/Fall/Winter/Spring) for all education backgrounds, with stipend.

    Health and Aging Policy Fellowship
    Year-long, paid program for range of junior and senior scientists, academics, and health care providers. The residential track allows fellows to participate in the policymaking process on either the Federal or state level as legislative assistants in Congress, professional staff members in executive branch agencies or policy organizations. The non-residential track allows fellows to remain at their home institution but work on a policy project that involves brief placement(s) throughout the year at relevant sites.

    OSTP Internship Program
    Up to three month unpaid internship with the Office of Science and Technology Policy, which advises the President on the effects of science and technology on domestic and international affairs. Assignments provide educational enrichment, practical work experience, and network opportunities with other individuals in the science and technology policy arena.

    Phoebe S. Leboy Public Policy Fellowship
    Two-year salaried fellowship to work in Washington, D.C., as a full-time team member of the Association for Women in Science National Office. Some example duties include tracking legislation and analyzing policy issues at the nexus of gender and science, working with key AWIS advocacy partners including scientific and engineering societies, representing AWIS at key coalition meetings and conferences, and developing talking points, letters, and other advocacy documents. For more information, contact Janet Bandows Koster, Executive Director & CEO, at koster@awis.org

    Research!America
    Three-month internship, with stipend, in the office of the Director of Science Policy to assist the organization with its mission to make research to improve health a higher national priority through education, advocacy and public policy activities. Internship is available for college seniors, graduate students or recent graduates and a fellowship is available to those with a Ph.D.

    Science and Technology Policy Institute
    The Science Policy Fellowship Program at the Science and Technology Policy Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a two-year fellowship where recipients work with researchers on analyses related to science and technology policy. Fellows may be involved in research for the Office of Science and Technology Policy and for federal agencies like the National Science Foundation and the NIH.

    Congressional Offices

    Additional opportunities to get involved in science policy are available through federal or state legislators. Look into working for a senator or representative on science and health policy or go through the different congressional committee/subcommittees involving health/science policy:

    Senate Committees
    House Committees

    National Institutes of Health (For Intramural Fellows)

    Detail Opportunities in the Office of Extramural Programs
    Unpaid detail (3-6 months) open to intramural postdocs (currently at NIH) interested in learning about research training programs and policies. Work 12-16 hours a week with the NIH Extramural Research Training Officer and staff, and attend monthly meetings of the NIH-wide Training Advisory Committee. Discuss the possibility of a detail with your PI and ensure that you can be temporarily spared from your other assignments. Then send an e-mail and your CV to Jennifer Sutton, Extramural Program Policy and Evaluation Officer, at suttonj@mail.nih.gov.

    Fellowship Opportunities in Federal Technology Transfer
    For postdoctoral fellows who currently hold an IRTA or CRTA position at the NIH and who want to make the transition to a career in technology transfer. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must commit two years to the program.

    Opportunities for Short Administrative Assignments at the NIH
    The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) and several components of the Office of the Director offer current postdoctoral trainees at the NIH the opportunity to spend three months on an administrative or science policy detail.

Last updated: June 27, 2022