Eligibility  

Who can apply for the Colorado Science & Technology Policy Program?

The Colorado Science & Technology Policy Program Fellowship is open to those with a terminal degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in a natural science, social science, engineering, technology, or related discipline (e.g., engineering; social or behavioral sciences; medical or health sciences; biological, physical, or earth sciences; or computational sciences or mathematics). A master’s degree (M.S., M.E., or equivalent), plus two to three years of work experience, will also be considered. Degree completion is required before the start of the Fellowship term.     

The hiring committee seeks to recruit a diverse applicant pool for the Fellowship. Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.    

What qualities should a Fellow possess? 

We are looking for Fellows who have the following traits to be successful in their role: 

• A connection to, or interest in, Colorado and the state’s current events 
• A commitment to public service and the state policy-making processes 
• A capacity to be flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• The ability to deal with technical information outside one's own specialty 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate complex and technical topics with both experts and non-experts  
• An appreciation for political sensitivities, and the ability to work effectively with people with a diverse range of experiences and values in a non-partisan environment  
• Personal integrity and self-motivation, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously  

Is the Fellowship limited to Colorado residents?  

No, all eligible applicants are encouraged to apply. However, residency within a commutable distance to the Colorado State Capitol and host offices in Denver is required throughout the fellowship.  

Relocation costs are available to those needing to relocate to the Denver Metro Area. 

Are there additional residency requirements?  

Yes, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible to work in the United States.  

Is previous experience in policy required?  

No, applicants are not expected to have previous policy experience. However, they are expected to be interested in the policy and political processes of Colorado state government and understand the value of scientific expertise in policymaking and willing to learn.  

Is the Fellowship limited to only early-career scientists?  

No. Applicants at all stages of their careers are encouraged to apply, including mid-career scientists and researchers, faculty members on sabbatical, as well as recent graduates.  

Is a candidate’s political affiliation a consideration in selecting Fellows? 

No. Fellows are selected on a non-partisan basis and are expected to uphold a non-partisan view throughout their tenure and in their work.

Application  

When is the application due? 

The application period for the 2025-2026 cohort is now closed. Meet the current Fellows and sign up for our mailing list to be notified when the next application period opens in Spring 2026.

Schedule and Duties 

When does the Colorado Science & Technology Policy Fellowship begin?  

This is a full-time position, beginning in October. The Fellowship year ends the following September. Fellows may be invited to extend their Fellowship for an additional year on a case-by-case basis.  

How are Fellows placed?  

Fellows will receive their office assignments after the initial orientation and training period. Next, Fellows will meet with interested host offices within the Legislative Branch. Hosts and Fellows will complete a mutual ranking process, and using these rankings, office assignments will be determined by the Institute for Science & Policy.

What are the Fellowship policies regarding in-person, hybrid, and remote work opportunities?  

While fellows are required to be living in, or around the Denver, Colorado area, flexibility on work location is granted and will be determined by the host office. Fellows must be present at the Capitol in Denver throughout the Fellowship year (October - September).