Call for The John N. Bahcall Public Policy Fellowship 2026 is open now!!!
The John N. Bahcall Public Policy Fellowship is a one-year, full-time postdoctoral-level position with the American Astronomical Society (AAS), focused on science policy and advocacy in Washington, D.C.
The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is a nonprofit membership organization working to enhance and share humanity’s scientific understanding of the universe as a diverse and inclusive astronomical community. Their membership of about 8,200 individuals includes physicists, mathematicians, geologists, engineers, and others whose research and educational interests span the broad spectrum of subjects now comprising the astronomical sciences. AAS’s advocacy efforts focus on US federal policymaking that affects the astronomical sciences, including research and education funding, policies affecting the profession, and regulations.
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The John N. Bahcall Public Policy Fellowship is a full-time, one-year postdoctoral-level position, renewable for a second year. The salary for this position is like the AIP Congressional Science Fellowship. The Fellowship is named in honor of Dr. John Bahcall, a successful advocate for astronomy and a respected researcher.
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In partnership with the AAS Director and Deputy Director of Public Policy, the Bahcall Public Policy Fellow will be responsible for a wide range of AAS public policy activities, including:
- Direct advocacy for issues in the astronomical sciences with Congress, the Administration, and others
- Building and maintaining relationships with key policy people related to the astronomical sciences (Congressional staff, White House staff, federal agency staff, National Academies, etc.)
- Supporting the work of the Committee on Astronomy and Public Policy (CAPP), the Committee for Protection of Astronomy and the Space Environment (COMPASSE), Division policy committees, and Society and Division leadership
- Coordination of multiple Congressional visit days for groups of AAS members
- Coordination of educational briefings and exhibitions on Capitol Hill
- Drafting of congressional testimony, letters to policymakers, AAS Board resolutions, and advocacy materials
- Developing and implementing policy sessions for the AAS annual meetings
- Authorship of the AAS Policy Blog, policy-related AAS social media, and AAS Action Alerts and Informational Emails
- Delivering invited colloquium talks at college/university departments and other institutions around the country
- Representing the AAS in several science and technology coalitions, including taking on occasional leadership roles for special events or initiatives
- Attendance at policy-related events: receptions, Congressional hearings, coalition meetings, conferences, briefings, advisory committee meetings, colloquia, etc.
- Monitoring developments across the astronomical science community in major scientific results, priorities, challenges, and concerns that relate to federal policies and funding
Location:
North AmericaBenefits
Benefits that applicants get from the fellowship are-
- Competitive salary: aligned with other national science policy fellowships, plus a comprehensive benefits package.
- 13 paid holidays: recognition of major U.S. holidays with time off.
- Insurance: full coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; and short- and long-term disability for financial and health security.
- Parking and commuter benefits: support for local commuting by car or public transportation.
- 403(b) retirement plan: employer-supported savings for long-term financial stability.
Eligibilities
- Full or Graduate Student membership in the AAS at the time of application (other classes of AAS or Division membership will not be considered)
- PhD in the astronomical sciences or a related field; all degree requirements must be completed before the start of the fellowship term
- Demonstrated interest or experience in science policy and advocacy
- Excellent record of technical accomplishment
- Outstanding interpersonal and communications skills; willing to network; comfortable being outgoing in professional settings
- Sound judgment and maturity in decision-making
- Legally authorized to work in the US (AAS cannot sponsor work authorizations at this time)
Application Process
- Submission Method: Applications must be submitted only via the official online web form.
- Prepare Required Materials:
- Contact information
- PhD status and institution
- Names and contact details of three references
- Cover letter (explaining interest, career fit, and qualifications)
- Short CV
- Reference Letters: Applicant’s listed references will be contacted directly to submit letters by the application deadline.
- Additional Materials: Semi-finalists may be asked to provide relevant writing samples.
- Start Date: Flexible start dates are available. Applicants should indicate their earliest possible start date in the web form.
Application Deadline: April 16, 2026 (19 Days Remaining)
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