ASBMB's Science Policy Fellowship offers recently graduated PhDs an exposure to a range of activities regarding science policy, and congressional and government relations, by working in the Public Affairs office at ASBMB’s Washington, DC area headquarters.
Applications are accepted in early spring. The fellow begins his/her tenure on July 1 and serves for 15-18 months. Deadlines for the 2011-2012 fellowship will be posted when available.
General overview and goals of the program
The primary goal of the fellowship program is to offer young scientists exposure to the interactions between science, society, and policy. Decisions by Congress, regulatory agencies, and local school boards have a profound effect on the conduct of science. Likewise, science provides many benefits to society, including innovation, treatments for public health threats, and jobs conducting research and supporting laboratories. Scientists play a crucial role in educating the public on the benefits of science, while advocating for policies that will facilitate the discoveries of the future.
The fellow will work closely with the ASBMB Director of Public Affairs, Peter Farnham, to participate in a range of science policy research, communications and advocacy activities, including Congressional meetings and hearings, agency briefings, seminars, and advocacy coalition meetings. They will also have the opportunity to participate in activities of the ASBMB Public Affairs Advisory Committee (PAAC), broadening their exposure to scientists who have participated in these policy discussions. Outside of the general responsibilities discussed below, the fellow will have significant freedom to follow specific topics and issues that are of interest to them.
Responsibilities of the Fellow
The fellow will gain skills and experience with a wide variety of issues and aspects of science policy. The general responsibilities for the fellow are:
Research and Analysis
• Track legislation and science policy issues relevant to the society's membership
• In consultation with Director, respond to members’ requests for information or updates regarding science policy issues
• Support ASBMB's Public Affairs Advisory Committee, performing policy analysis, participating in meetings and organizing conference calls
• Attend Congressional hearings, briefings and other science policy events of interest to the biomedical community
• Conduct an independent science policy project, under the guidance of the Director and the PAAC
Advocacy
• Working with the Director, organize semi-annual "Hill days" for society members
• Prepare background materials for, arrange and staff Congressional, federal and other meetings for PAAC members, students and postdocs
• Represent ASBMB and the biomedical community in regular meetings and conference calls of advocacy coalitions
Communications
• Update PAAC members weekly on developing science policy issues
• Author regular postings for the society's science policy blog
• Write regular articles on relevant science policy issues for the society's member magazine, ASBMB Today
• Write and distribute a monthly Public Affairs E-newsletter
• Attend in-person meetings of the society's governing council
• Assist in maintaining the Public Affairs website
Terms
The Society will sponsor one fellow to work in the ASBMB Office of Public Affairs. The Fellow will receive a competitive stipend, healthcare benefits, and reimbursement of moving expenses. Funds are also available for fellowship-related travel and professional development.
Qualifications
The fellow will be selected on a competitive basis from applicants having:
• a recently awarded doctorate (i.e. applicant is not beyond post-doctoral stage)
• a demonstrated interest in the relationship between science and public policy
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Superior organizational skills and the ability to handle a variety of tasks
How to Apply
Individuals interested in applying should submit the following:
1) A resume or CV (no more than 3 pages)
2) A letter of intent (no more than 3 pages) outlining:
a. Why you are applying for this particular program
b. What specific policy issues interest you
c. What you hope to accomplish as a Fellow
d. How this experience would enhance your career
e. Your previous participation in civic activities and/or public affairs
3) Two letters of reference should be sent directly to ASBMB at the address below. Please include reference contact information with your application.
All application materials must be sent electronically (.pdf, .doc, .docx) to:
Peter Farnham, CAE, Director of Public Affairs, ASBMB, pfarnham@asbmb.org
For questions or additional information, pfarnham@asbmb.org, Tel: 301-634-7384, Fax: 301-634-7126