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Congressional Fellowships

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Congressional Fellowships

A unique public policy learning experience for PhD scientists and engineers.

Get Involved

Optica Congressional Fellowships

Congressional Fellowships are a one-year opportunity for scientists and engineers to gain a unique public policy learning experience. Fellows spend a year working in Washington, D.C., typically as legislative assistants for a member of Congress or a congressional committee. This program demonstrates the value of bringing a technical background and external perspective to the decision-making process in the U.S. government.

Optica/MRS Congressional Fellowship

The Optica/MRS Congressional Fellowship is a one-year program that places scientists and engineers in key roles within the U.S. government. Co-sponsored by Optica and the Materials Research Society (MRS), fellows serve as legislative assistants for a member of Congress or a congressional committee. This role allows them to gain experience in public policy, influence how science is used in government, and improve the scientific community's communication with Congress.

The program begins in early September with an intensive orientation run by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). This training covers how Congress and the executive branch operate and guides fellows through the process of choosing their placement. After the orientation, fellows interview with various congressional offices to secure their final position. Throughout the year, the AAAS also hosts seminars on science and public policy and provides other educational opportunities.

2027–28 Optica/MRS Congressional Fellowship

Application portal opens 14 September 2026 | Deadline: 04 December 2026

Eligibility Criteria
  • Strong record of research in optical science, technology, or materials.
  • Must have a Ph.D. by the start of the fellowship (September).
  • Policy-minded with a strong interest in applying scientific and technical knowledge to U.S. public policy.
  • Ability to work cooperatively with individuals having diverse viewpoints.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States (subject to verification).
  • Must be a member of Optica or MRS.
Application Requirements
  • Resume: Your resume should be no longer than two pages and include your educational background, employment history, and professional activities. You may include an optional third page for a list of professional publications and presentations. The resume should be tailored to highlight the qualifications for this fellowship.
  • Statement of Interest: Up to 1,000 words explaining your interest in the fellowship, your career goals, the contributions you believe you can make to the legislative process, and what you hope to gain from the experience.
  • Letters of Reference: Three signed letters of reference are required. These letters should be uploaded and must be in PDF format on official letterhead with an electronic or scanned signature. You are responsible for ensuring all three letters are submitted by the application deadline. If a recommender has difficulty uploading the letter, they can email it to CF@optica.org.
Program Stipend 
  • Competitive Stipend
  • Health insurance allowance.
  • Travel and relocation allowance to the Washington, DC area. 
Evaluation Criteria
  • Scientific/Technical Background: The applicant's professional accomplishments and technical background, with weighting based on their career stage.
  • Communication Skills: The ability to communicate effectively with both scientific and nonscientific audiences, including writing skills and involvement in community outreach.
  • Public Policy Interest: Demonstrated interest through participation in policy or advocacy activities, service to professional societies, or other relevant involvement.
  • Fellowship Skills: Qualities such as the capacity to work quickly and cooperatively, experience with diverse viewpoints, and strong interpersonal skills.
Questions? Contact:

Congressional Fellowship Program at CF@optica.org
 
Meet Our 2026-2027 Optica/MRS Congressional Fellow and Past Fellows
 
Past Arthur H. Guenther Congressional Fellows
 
Resources
Webinars
Optics and Photonics News and MRS articles about the Congressional Fellowship experience
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