Each year, APA places three psychologists in congressional offices and a federal agency in Washington, D.C. These APA policy fellowships provide a unique opportunity to bring much-needed psychological perspectives to federal policymaking institutions.
APA Congressional Fellowship
The APA Congressional Fellowship places a psychologist on Capitol Hill for one year working as a special legislative assistant in a U.S. House or Senate office. Congressional fellows bring their psychological expertise to bear on a diverse range of policymaking activities, such as drafting legislation, writing speeches, meeting with constituents and outside groups, and conducting background research. Psychologists who have experience working directly with children may also indicate that they wish to be considered for a second congressional position, the Jacquelin Goldman Congressional Fellowship. Read more about what past congressional fellows have said about their fellowship experience: Six Essential Lessons You Learn from Working on Capitol Hill as an APA Congressional Fellow.
APA Executive Branch Science Fellowship
The APA Executive Branch Science Fellowship places a psychological scientist as a special assistant in a federal agency working on issues ranging from science policy to research administration. The year-long placement is tailored to the individual fellow’s interests and expertise. Past placements have included the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Department of Justice, and Department of Education. Read more about the experience of our most recent Executive Branch Science Fellow: A Public Policy Approach to Equity.
Completed applications for the 2021-2022 fellowship year are due by Jan. 4, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. For questions about the APA Congressional Fellowships, contact Aaron Bishop, fellowship director, or for the APA Executive Branch Science Fellowship, contact Craig Fisher, fellowship director.