Apply to become a Science Policy Fellow

The ESA Science Policy Fellows program is a great way to build your communication skills while you support and promote your profession. As Ariel Rivers (SPF Cohort of 2014) puts it, "the program has definitely expanded my capabilities with science communication. I've had multiple positive experiences in DC recently, with both agency partners and the general public, and I think much of that success came from having practiced short pitches and asks through the Fellows program. 

Applications are open April 2 - June 16, 2024!

Requirements to Apply:

  1. The full application packet cannot be more than 10 pages in length.
  2. All applicants must be current ESA members in good standing and be a member of at least one Section of the Society.
  3. Candidate statement (500 words max): Describe why you would like to participate in the ESA Science Policy Fellows program. How do you think the ESA Science Policy Fellows program will benefit you and your career? 
  4. Issue statement (500 words max). Describe one policy issue and why it is important for the future of entomology. 
  5. One reference letter from the applicant's supervisor.  Letters can be submitted anonymously using the new application system.  To do so, the application packet needs to be initiated by the applicant.  You can then request a letter of recommendation. Letters of recommendation need to be received by May 30 in order for the application to be submitted by the deadline.
  6. CV or resume (2-page max). Applicants are encouraged to include
    1. contact information,
    2. employment history,
    3. awards and recognition (limited to five most relevant) including  date awarded, title, and organization
    4. science communication experience (limited to five most relevant) including  dates and a brief description
    5. science content experience (limited to five most relevant), including reviewed publications, non-refereed communication materials (blogs, website, YouTube, etc) with links where appropriate
  7. If you are selected as a finalist, you will also need to provide a letter from your institution authorizing participation in the program (if selected).
  8. The Science Policy Committee reserves the right to amend these requirements at any time.

Review Process and Evaluation:

The ESA Science Policy Committee will conduct the evaluation and selection process. Among other factors, the Society seeks to have broad representation on these factors:

  • Geographic representation across the United States and territories
  • Functional representation across the ESA Sections
  • Demographic representation across the breadth of ESA's membership
  • Experiential representation (Ideally there will be one student, two postdoctoral/early career, one mid-career, and one senior scientist in each class).

The precise mix may vary from year to year, depending upon the quality of submitted candidates and the existing Fellows in the program. In general, candidates at each career stage will be evaluated with others at similar stages, rather than with the entire applicant pool. All applicants will be evaluated on the following categories: (a) Writing Skills, (b) Research and/or Professional Area of Interest, and (c) References. If you are selected as a finalist, you will also partake in an interview which will influence the selection process.

Important points to know prior to applying to the Science Policy Fellows program:

  • Prestigious. Being selected as an ESA Science Policy Fellow is a high honor and applicants should carefully consider all aspects of the program prior to applying.
  • Not employment.  The program is not full-time and you would not be required to relocate nor quit your current job.
  • No age limit. As stated above, we are looking for applicants from all levels of career development.
  • Starting and ending dates. The 2024 class of ESA Science Policy Fellows will begin their appointment at the 2024 ESA Annual Meeting and will conclude it just prior to the 2026 meeting.
  • Expected workload. There will be two annual trips (spring and fall) to Washington, D.C. with required attendance at the ESA Annual Meeting while in active service. Additionally, there may be periodic opportunities for other training or contributions.
  • Remuneration. Beyond gratis ESA meeting registration during the active years as a Fellow and a $500 annual travel stipend, this is not a paid position. All Washington, D.C. travel expenses will be covered by ESA.

For any questions on the ESA Science Policy Fellows program please contact Erin Cadwalader.

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