Applications Open: David Leuschen Global Energy Fellows at Columbia University 2025-2026
- Omran Aburayya
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
If you are a graduate student passionate about shaping the future of global energy and climate policy, applications are now open for the David Leuschen Global Energy Fellows Program at Columbia University. This prestigious fellowship, run by the Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), is designed to prepare emerging leaders to address the world’s most pressing energy challenges through research, mentorship, and professional development. Here's everything you need to know.
🎓 Fellowship Summary
Location: Columbia University, New York, USA
Host center: Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs
Level: Graduate (Master’s and Ph.D. students)
Target Group: Full-time graduate students at Columbia University with a demonstrated interest in energy and climate policy
Fields of Focus: Energy systems, climate change, geopolitics, renewable energy, energy markets, policy, and related disciplines
Value & Coverage:
Stipend for up to 10 hours of Student Research Work per week
Full funding for a summer internship in the energy/climate field (must be unpaid and meet program criteria)
Exclusive career and networking opportunities
Mentorship with CGEP scholars and senior energy leaders
Duration: One academic year (January–December 2026)
Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
Start Date: January 2026
Eligible To: All full-time graduate students (including Ph.D. candidates) enrolled at Columbia University during the fellowship year
📚 Fellowship Overview
The David Leuschen Global Energy Fellows Program equips students with the expertise, network, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in global energy and climate leadership. Selected fellows join a small, competitive cohort of 15 students, benefiting from direct engagement with leading energy scholars, policymakers, and industry experts.
🧩 Structure & Activities
Monthly Luncheons & Learning Sessions: Fellows engage with distinguished energy leaders on critical issues such as energy security, climate change, renewable energy, and global markets.
1:1 Mentorship: Each fellow is paired with a Senior Research Scholar or Global Fellow at CGEP for tailored guidance and collaboration.
Research Work: Fellows are compensated for up to 10 hours per week as Student Research Workers, gaining research and analytical experience.
Networking & Career Support: CVs and writing samples are shared with corporate partners, giving fellows direct access to internship and career opportunities.
Exclusive Events: Curated networking dinners, team events, and workshops support academic and professional growth.
Summer Internship Funding: Fellows receive full support to pursue an unpaid summer internship in the energy/climate space.
🎁 Benefits
Mentorship from global energy policy experts
Stipend for part-time research work at CGEP
Fully funded summer internship in the energy or climate sector
Access to exclusive Columbia and industry networking events
Career development workshops and curated corporate connections
Membership in a growing network of energy leaders and alumni fellows
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Must be a full-time graduate student (Master’s or Ph.D.) at Columbia University during the fellowship year
Strong academic and professional track record
Demonstrated interest in global energy systems and climate policy
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Commitment to attending luncheons, workshops, and fellowship activities throughout the year
✍🏻 Application Procedure
Applications are open from September 9 to September 30, 2025. Students will be notified of their acceptance in October 2025, and the fellowship begins in January 2026.
🗂️ Application Materials
Online application form via Columbia University portal
Updated CV/resume
Writing sample (academic or professional, relevant to energy/climate)
Statement of interest outlining your academic background, professional goals, and interest in energy policy
Contact details for references (if requested during the selection process)
🔍 Selection Process
Applications reviewed by CGEP Scholars and Administrators
Evaluation based on academic achievement, research and professional experience, and demonstrated interest in energy systems
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for a virtual or in-person interview
Final results announced October 2025
ℹ️ Additional Information
The program is highly competitive, admitting only 15 fellows each year.
Internships supported by the fellowship must be unpaid and cannot be in family-owned or self-founded organizations.
The fellowship is deeply integrated into Columbia’s energy and climate research ecosystem, offering unparalleled access to cutting-edge policy discussions.