The Jefferson Science Fellowship program engages tenured, or similarly ranked, academic scientists, engineers and physicians from U.S. institutions of higher learning to spend one year working with either the U.S. Department of State or USAID. The assignment may be coordinated with a relevant U.S. embassy overseas. Participants are expected to return to their institutions after the one-year assignment but remain available for short-term consultancies.

Deadline for application: Jan. 13
Finalist interviews: February/March
Beginning of appointment: August 2012

Eligibility:

• U.S. citizen
• Tenure (or similar rank)
• Fields of science, technology, engineering and those who are physicians
• Stature, recognition and experience in the national and international scientific or engineering community
• Ability to articulate science and technology issues to nonspecialist audiences
• Ability to rapidly and accurately understand scientific advancements outside one’s discipline and integrate this knowledge effectively in Dept. of State/USAID policy discussions
• Interest and experience with and an open mind toward policy issues
• Security clearances are required for successful applicants
• A memo of understanding must be in place with the institution. Georgia Tech has a MOU. Dr. Rob Butera (ECE) participated in this program in 2008.

Assignment:

During the one-year assignment, salary and benefits of the fellow will be paid by the academic institution at which appointment is held. The academic position is maintained during the assignment. In addition, the fellow will be paid a per diem of up to $50,000 by the U.S. Department of State/USID to cover local living expenses. In addition, $10,000 will be made available to the fellow for travel associated with the assignment.

To Apply:

Complete application packages includes biographical information, a CV, Statement of Interest, two essays and three to five letters of recommendation.

Statement of interest: Explain benefits expected for self and for university. What knowledge does the person have that may contribute to either the Department of State or USAID?

Essays: Demonstrate impact of science, technology and engineering on foreign policy decision making. Discuss major advances in field of expertise that have had significant societal impact on an international scale. Identify issues in science and technology that have not received sufficient attention of U.S. foreign policy makers.