AGU Congressional Science Fellowship 2026/27 in USA

The American Geophysical Union offers its Congressional Science Fellowship annually. This program places accomplished scientists directly within Congressional offices. Fellows serve one-year assignments contributing scientific expertise to policymaking. Since 1977, this fellowship has connected geoscience with legislative decision-making. Applications for the 2026-2027 cycle are currently closed, following the October 20 to January 15 submission window.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: American Geophysical Union (AGU)
• Location: U.S. Congress, Washington, D.C.
• Duration: One year, full-time
• Stipend: Monthly payments totaling a competitive annual salary
• Submission Window: October 20 to January 15 annually
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or valid work visa holders

Focus Areas

• Water policy and climate research
• Energy conservation and environmental science
• Legislative drafting and congressional communications
• Constituent services and floor debate preparation

About the Fellowship

This program has embedded scientists within Congress for nearly five decades. Fellows work directly in a member’s office or on committee staff. Their responsibilities mirror those of permanent congressional staff members entirely. This includes drafting bills, writing speeches, and meeting with stakeholders regularly.

Fellows also document their experiences through AGU communication channels throughout the year. Alumni have gone on to careers spanning government, academia, and industry broadly.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows receive a monthly stipend throughout their twelve-month assignment. AGU also covers relocation expenses incurred during the move to Washington. Work-related travel, including trips to AGU’s Annual Meeting, is reimbursed. Additionally, AGU provides complimentary annual meeting registration during the fellowship year. Health care coverage rounds out this comprehensive support package for fellows.

Who Can Apply

This fellowship targets geoscientists holding a completed doctorate degree. However, no strict restrictions exist regarding age or career stage specifically. Prior policy experience isn’t required, though genuine interest in public problems helps. Strong communication skills and flexibility across diverse issues matter significantly here. Applicants must hold U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or valid work authorization.

Required Materials

Applicants submit a curriculum vitae with a publications appendix included. Three recommendation letters addressing the applicant’s relevant competence are required. Degree candidates should also include a letter confirming their thesis completion timeline.

How to Apply

Visit AGU’s official fellowship page for updates on the next cycle.

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Conclusion

This fellowship offers geoscientists a rare, well-compensated opportunity to directly shape federal legislation on climate, energy, and environmental policy. Its nearly fifty-year track record has built a strong network of alumni now working across government and academia. Since this cycle’s applications have closed, prospective candidates should monitor AGU’s website for the next submission window, typically opening each October.

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