ANS Congressional Fellowship 2026, USA

Description

The American Nuclear Society (ANS) is now inviting applications for the 2026 ANS Congressional Fellowship, a unique, year-long opportunity for nuclear professionals to contribute directly to the U.S. federal policymaking process in Washington, D.C. The Fellowship offers a chance to work in a U.S. Senate or House office or on a congressional committee, where fellows provide expert input on nuclear science and technology while gaining hands-on experience in the legislative process.

What Is the ANS Congressional Fellowship?

Launched in 2000 and coordinated through the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Congressional Science and Engineering Fellowship Program, the ANS Congressional Fellowship enables nuclear professionals to serve as policy advisors to lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Fellows support legislative work not only on nuclear-related matters but also in broader areas such as energy, environment, climate change, public safety, and infrastructure.

This fellowship serves as both a career-transforming experience and a critical platform to advance science-based policymaking in the United States.

Degree Level

ANS Congressional Fellowship 2026, USA is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at USA Universities.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

• Nuclear Science and Technology

Benefits

1. Stipend: $95,000 per year, paid monthly
2. Additional Benefits:
3. Up to $10,000 for travel to the AAAS orientation and two ANS national meetings
4. Up to $5,000 for health insurance premiums not covered by other programs

Eligible Nationalities

Open to US citizens only.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Must be a U.S. citizen
2. Must be an ANS member for at least two years prior to the application deadline
3. Cannot be a federal employee at the start of the fellowship
4. Must fulfill at least one of the following academic qualifications by January 1, 2026:
5. A Ph.D. in a nuclear-related discipline and one year of relevant experience
6. A Master’s degree in engineering and at least three years of professional experience (before or after the degree)

Application Procedure

Application Timeline for 2026 Fellowship

1. February 3, 2025: Application portal opens
2. June 6, 2025: Application deadline (11:59 PM EST)
3. June 2025: First round of virtual interviews
4. July 2025: Finalist interviews and selections
5. September 2025: AAAS Fellowship orientation in Washington, D.C.
6. January 1, 2026: Fellowship term begins

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following documents (PDF, Word, or similar format) via email to fellow@ans.org:

1. Name, mailing address, email, and phone numbers
2. A maximum two-page resume or CV summarizing academic and professional background
3. A maximum two-page statement of purpose, detailing:
4. Why you are applying
5. What you hope to achieve
6. How the fellowship will benefit you and your current/future career
7. One or two letters of reference

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be assessed based on:

1. Technical expertise in nuclear science and technology
2. Demonstrated ability to engage in public policy discussions
3. Strong written and oral communication skills
4. Contributions to ANS and the nuclear community

Expectations of the Fellow

1. Attend the AAAS orientation in fall 2025
2. Secure a placement in a congressional office or committee
3. Actively contribute to legislative policy in nuclear and related fields
4. Submit quarterly progress reports to ANS staff and committee chairs
5. Serve on the ANS Special Committee for the Congressional Fellowship after completing the term (optional but encouraged)

Impactful Legacy

Many previous ANS Congressional Fellows have gone on to shape energy policy, advise lawmakers on nuclear regulation, and hold influential positions in government, academia, and industry. Fellows such as Harsh Desai (2014) and Eric Loewen (2005) have described the experience as career-defining, offering insights into how science and policy intersect.

Final Thoughts

The ANS Congressional Fellowship 2026 offers a rare and powerful opportunity for nuclear professionals to bring their expertise to the center of national policy decisions. Whether you aim to influence energy legislation, advocate for sustainable nuclear innovation, or deepen your understanding of federal policy, this fellowship equips you with the tools and connections to make a lasting impact.

Apply by June 6, 2025, and take your place among the next generation of science-policy leaders.