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.

Up to two fellows will be placed from August 2024 to July 2025, in the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives or with a Congressional Committee. The salary for the fellowship is $80,000, plus a $200 monthly reimbursement for health insurance coverage.

Qualifications & Expectations

Qualified candidates must be a U.S. citizen, have a science background, and have or finalize by August 2024 a Master’s Degree or Ph.D. in climate, environmental science, or a relevant field. Candidates must be able to translate complex ideas and dense topics into easily understood written and verbal communications and have a desire to combat climate change through pragmatic solutions.

This is an in-person position in Washington, D.C.. COVID-19 vaccination is required for selected fellows.

Applications for 2024-2025 are Now Closed!

We are no longer accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Congressional Fellowship. Applications were due Friday, April 5, 2024.

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. Final decisions are expected to be made by the end of June 2024. If you have any questions, please contact csffellowships@climatesolutionsfoundation.com.

MEET OUR FELLOWS

  • 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

  • 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)

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

Applications are Closed for 2024-2025

Please check back late this year for next year’s application.

If you have any questions about the fellowship or issues submitting an application,
please contact
CSFFellowships@climatesolutionsfoundation.com