Gulf Research Program Science Policy Fellowship

The Gulf Research Program’s Science Policy Fellowship program helps scientists hone their skills by putting them to practice for the benefit of Gulf Coast communities and ecosystems. Fellows gain first-hand experience as they spend one year on the staff of federal, state, local, or non-governmental environmental, natural resource, oil and gas, and public health agencies in the Gulf of Mexico region.

To better prepare scientists, engineers, and health professionals to work at the nexus of oil system safety, environmental protection, and human health in the Gulf region, the Gulf Research Program will administer Science Policy Fellowships. These Science Policy Fellowships will contribute to a suite of leadership development and capacity building activities by facilitating the academic, intellectual, and professional development of individuals who have demonstrated superior scholarship and an interest in public policy. This educational opportunity will provide Fellows with valuable experience at the science-policy interface through a one-year work experience on the staff of a state legislature; state environmental, natural resource, oil and gas, or public health agency; or regional offices of relevant federal agencies.

Stipend and Benefits

Fellows who have completed an MA, MS, or MPH/MSPH degree or who are currently enrolled in a doctoral program will receive an annual stipend of $58,000. Fellows who have completed a PhD, ScD, EngD, MD, DrPH, or DVM will receive an annual stipend of $63,000. The GRP has increased the stipend amounts to account for cost of living increases.

In addition to the stipend, each fellow will receive an annual health allowance of $5,500, a $1,500 one-time payment prior to or at the beginning of the fellowship term to defray costs associated with relocation, and up to $5,000 in additional support as reimbursement for tuition and/or fees for professional development.