AIP Seeks Applicants for State Department Fellowship

This announcement comes from the American Institute of Physics (AIP), of which the AAS is a Member Society:

If you are a scientist interested in the intersection of science, policy, and international affairs, AIP encourages you to apply for an AIP State Department fellowship. The application deadline for the 2016-17 term is 1 November 2015.

Issues involving science and technology (S&T) are an important part of America's diplomatic portfolio, and most international policy issues have a technical component, making it essential for the US Department of State to have knowledgeable scientific input. This fellowship is a unique opportunity for a scientist to contribute scientific and technical expertise to the department and raise awareness of the value of scientific input. In turn, scientists broaden their experience by interacting with policymakers in the federal government and learning about the foreign-policy process. AIP fellows have worked on topics as varied as critical-infrastructure protection, export controls, use of remote-sensing imagery, biotechnology and the safety of agricultural products, as well as European, Russian, and Chinese science policy.

The fellowship includes a $77,500 stipend, health-insurance reimbursement, relocation funds, and a professional-development allotment.

Application Information and Qualifications

Qualified scientists at any stage of their career are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be US citizens, have a PhD in physics or a closely related field, be members of one or more of AIP's Member Societies, and be eligible to receive an appropriate security clearance prior to starting the fellowship. For information on AIP's fellowship-program qualifications and application instructions, please visit the program's website. Final interviews will take place early in 2016, and the 12-month fellowship term will begin in the fall of 2016.

AIP does not take a role in the fellow's placement but does encourage its fellows to seek opportunities beyond the traditional roles for scientists in the department when interviewing for an assignment, to broaden the reach and visibility of scientific expertise within the department. Application components include a letter of intent, résumé, and three letters of recommendation. More information and a link to our online application portal are available at the website. Developing a clear, comprehensive, and competitive application takes significant time. Start early and contact your references as soon as possible. All application materials must be received by the November 1st deadline.

Please see the AIP website or contact Jennifer Greenamoyer (301-209-3104) if you have questions or need additional information.