The American Educational Research Association invites applications for the AERA Congressional Fellowship Program. This new program is being launched during AERA’s Centennial year. The inaugural cohort of fellows will commence a one-year fellowship in September 2016.

The aim of the program is to provide education researchers with an opportunity to participate first-hand in the policymaking process. Fellows work on the staff of a member of Congress or a congressional committee. The fellowship also provides an opportunity for fellows to contribute their scientific expertise on issues central to the priorities and agendas of members of Congress.

The Congressional Fellowship Program will bring up to three doctorate-level education researchers to Washington, DC each year to work closely with policymakers and staff on Capitol Hill. AERA seeks candidates across career stages, areas of research specialization, and work sectors with a solid foundation and accomplishments in research (appropriate to career stage) and interests in policymaking and public service.

Applicants from diverse backgrounds (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender, disability status) and levels of experience (e.g., recent doctorates, early career researchers, faculty or research scientists on leave or sabbatical) are encouraged to consider this professional development opportunity.

AERA Congressional Fellows benefit from a comprehensive two-week orientation as well as professional development and networking opportunities throughout the year. AERA partners with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) that administers these professional development activities to AERA fellows and fellows of other research societies. AERA also provides additional professional development and networking opportunities targeted specifically to education researchers.

Eligibility Requirements

• All doctorate requirements completed (defense, all signatures received, and final text approved and submitted) by May 15 in the year of application.
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Member of AERA at time of application.
• Not a Federal Employee. Holding a Title 42 position is considered federal employment. Postdoctoral positions at any government agency or lab, for private contractors, or in state or local government agencies are not considered federal employees.

Terms of Fellowship

• All fellowships begin on September 1 and end on August 31 of the following year.
• All fellowships are located in a congressional office in Washington, DC.
• All fellowships require attendance at the AERA Annual Meeting during that year.

Fellowship Support

• A 12-month stipend of $70,000 for fellows with 0-7 years of postdoctorate, full-time employment as of September 1; a stipend of $80,000 for fellows with more than 7 years of postdoctorate, full-time employment by September 1.
• Reimbursement for uncovered health insurance up to $2,000 for the 12-month year.
• Reimbursement up to $2,500 for professional development and relocation expenses during the fellowship year.
• Travel, lodging, and registration covered by AERA to attend the AERA Annual Meeting.

Application Requirements

• Complete AERA Congressional Fellowship application.
• Upload curriculum vitae within application system.
• Have three letters of recommendation sent directly to [email protected].

How to Apply

• Application must be submitted through the AERA website.
• Complete applications are due to AERA by 11:59 pm PST, March 8, 2016.
• Inquiries may be directed to [email protected] or 202-238-3200.

Primary Program Contacts
Juliane Baron, Director of Government Relations, x222
Lori D. Hill, Visiting Scientist, x229