Congressional Fellowship
Gain public political experience. Advance climate policy.
Create a better world for future generations.
The Climate Solutions Foundation Congressional Fellowship Program is a one-year program that offers a unique opportunity to individuals early in their careers, and those completing their graduate school education, who are interested in climate policy. Selected fellows are placed in a Republican or Democratic office committed to durable policy solutions to advance the agenda on climate.
Fellows bring a deep understanding of climate science in order to help inform the development of responsible, bipartisan climate policies. They work alongside congressional staff in drafting legislation, conducting oversight work, preparing speeches and briefs, and assisting with committee hearings, events, and more. This program provides valuable insights into crafting and advancing legislation, and offers an opportunity to build a strong professional network.
CSF evaluates applications on a rolling basis according to need on the Hill. Up to 4 Fellows per year will be accepted into the program to serve in the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives or with a Congressional Committee. The salary for the fellowship is $80,000, plus healthcare & 401k benefits.
Qualifications & Expectations
This program is ideal for early-career professionals with a background in energy, climate, environmental sciences, or related fields who are interested in bipartisan policy. Candidates must be a U.S. citizen. A strong candidate will have an advanced degree in energy, climate science, environmental science, or a relevant field. Applicants with a mix of education and experience working at the intersection of these issues are also welcome to apply. Candidates must be able to translate complex ideas and dense topics into easily understood written and verbal communications and have a desire to work on bipartisan solutions to issues in the energy and climate space. This is an in-person position in Washington, D.C.
Selection Process
Following the application deadline, materials will be reviewed, and selected individuals will participate in a phone interview, meet with Climate Solutions Foundation leadership and interview with their prospective congressional office. If you have any questions, please contact csffellowships@climatesolutionsfoundation.com.
APPLY HERE!
MEET OUR FELLOWS
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EVAN KERN
2025-2026 Fellow with Rep. Scott Peters
Vermont Law & Graduate School, J.D. Cum Laude; University of Maryland, College Park, B.S. Business Management and Marketing
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MEGAN BANKOWSKI
2025-2026 Fellow with Sen. Chris Coons
Indiana University, MPA in Energy and Climate Change; B.S. in Public Affairs (Public Management and Leadership Concentration, and Political and Civic Engagement (PACE) Certificate)
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RISA FISH
2024-2025 Fellow with Sen. Michael Bennet
Georgetown University, M.S. Environment and Sustainability Management; Arizona State University, B.S. in Public Service and Public Policy (Sustainability Concentration)
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EM GREEN
2024-2025 Fellow with Rep. Scott Peters
Vermont Law & Graduate School, J.D. and M.S. Environmental Policy & Law; Rutgers University, M.F.A; Baruch Honors College, B.A. English Literature and Natural Sciences
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SAMUEL KESSLER
2024-2025 Fellow with Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick
University College Dublin, MPP Environmental Policy; University of Louisville, B.S. Environmental Analysis and Industrial Ecology & Public Policy
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INGRID IZAGUIRRE
2023-2025 Fellow with Rep. Chrissy Houlahan
Columbia University, M.Phil. and M.A. Earth and Environmental Sciences; University of Miami, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, B.S. Marine Science and Geology
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ELINA VANUSKA
2022-2024 Fellow with New Democrat Coalition
Georgetown University, M.S. Biomedical Science Policy & Advocacy; University of California Los Angeles, B.S. Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology
If you have any questions about the fellowship or issues submitting an application,
please contact CSFFellowships@climatesolutionsfoundation.com