CCST Science & Technology Policy Fellows

Every year, California decision makers must make critical decisions on a number of complex and dynamic issues facing our state, such as the state’s water supply, energy grid, and public health. To help address this, the California Council on Science & Technology (CCST) Science & Technology Policy Fellows program annually recruits and trains a cohort of fifteen PhD scientists and engineers to spend one year working in Sacramento, directly serving decision makers within the California State Legislature and Executive Branch.

During their year of public service, these scientific minds get a front-row seat learning about the craft and process of policy making in the state of California. CCST S&T Policy Fellows work alongside decision makers to evaluate complex scientific issues and interpret data, while tackling the responsibilities of full-time staffers.

The CCST S&T Policy Fellows program is a win-win for California. These talented individuals gain valuable experience and training in public policy and leadership. In turn, state decision makers are given access to science‑savvy staff who can inform policy discussions with scientific perspectives and expertise.

2026 class

Now Seeking Applications

15 positions available

Training begins Nov. 1, 2025

Informational Webinar:

Watch last year’s presentation

Read last year’s Q&A with Alumni

Degree PhD or equivalent in science, social science, or engineering field
* needed by Sept. 15, 2025

Residency Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible to work in the United States, or have an applicable US work visa.

Salary and Benefits Salary*, paid‑time off, health, dental, & vision benefits, reimbursements for approved professional development and relocation.

* See FAQ for latest salary amount, details on equivalent degrees, residency requirements, and more.

• December 1, 2024:
  Application period begins.

• March 3, 2025:
  Application period closes at midnight PT.

• April 2025:
  Notification sent to applicants for interviews.

• May 2025:
  Finalists’ interviews held.

• Late May/Early June 2025:
  Fellows selected.

• September 15, 2025:
  PhD or equivalent needed.

• November 1, 2025:
  Fellows training begins in Sacramento.

• December 2025:
  Fellows assigned to host offices.

• October 31, 2026:
  Fellowship ends.