Glenn T. Seaborg Congressional Science and Engineering Fellowship 2026

Omran Aburayya
May 11
3 min read

If you're a U.S. citizen with a background in nuclear science or engineering and a passion for public policy, the American Nuclear Society (ANS) invites you to apply for the 2026 Glenn T. Seaborg Congressional Science and Engineering Fellowship. This prestigious, year-long opportunity places nuclear professionals directly in the heart of the legislative process, working alongside lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to shape national energy and technology policy. Applications are now open and must be submitted by June 6, 2025.

📝 Fellowship Summary

Location: Washington, D.C., USA
Host Institution: American Nuclear Society (ANS) in partnership with the AAAS Congressional Science and Engineering Fellowship Program
Target Group: U.S. citizens with advanced degrees in nuclear-related fields
Fields of Focus: Nuclear science, engineering, energy policy, public policy
Value: $95,000 annual stipend; up to $10,000 travel reimbursement; up to $5,000 for health insurance premiums
Duration: 12 months (January 1 – December 31, 2026)
Application Deadline: June 6, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. EST
Start Date: January 1, 2026
Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are ANS members for at least two years

🔍 Fellowship Overview

The Glenn T. Seaborg Congressional Science and Engineering Fellowship offers nuclear professionals a unique opportunity to contribute their expertise to the federal policymaking process. Fellows are placed in the offices of U.S. Senators, Representatives, or congressional committees, where they provide scientific and technical insights on a range of issues, including nuclear energy, climate change, and technology policy. This immersive experience not only influences national legislation but also provides Fellows with a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process.

As part of the broader AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellows Program, ANS Fellows join a cohort of approximately 30 scientists and engineers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and networking opportunities. Since its inception in 2000, the ANS Fellowship has been instrumental in bridging the gap between science and policy.

🎁 Fellowship Benefits

Stipend: $95,000, disbursed in monthly installments over 12 months
Travel Allowance: Up to $10,000 for expenses related to attending the AAAS orientation and ANS National Meetings
Health Insurance: Up to $5,000 reimbursement for out-of-pocket premiums not covered by other programs
Professional Development: Participation in the AAAS orientation program and access to a network of science and policy professionals
Policy Experience: Direct involvement in the legislative process, contributing to the development of national policies

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Citizenship: U.S. citizen
ANS Membership: Member of the American Nuclear Society for at least two years prior to the application deadline
Employment Status: Not a federal government employee at the start of the Fellowship
Educational Background:
- Ph.D. in a nuclear-related discipline with at least one year of relevant experience, or
- Master's degree in engineering with three years of professional engineering-related experience

🗂️ Application Procedure

To apply, submit the following materials in Word, PDF, or a compatible format to fellow@ans.org by June 6, 2025:

Personal Information: Name, mailing address, email address, and day/evening phone numbers
Academic and Professional Summary: Maximum two pages
Statement of Purpose: Maximum two pages detailing your reasons for applying, objectives for the Fellowship, and anticipated benefits to your career and employer
Letters of Reference: One or two letters