CCST Science and Technology Policy Fellow

Start your science and technology policy career today with the CCST Science & Technology Policy Fellowship. As Fellows, scientists, engineers, and social scientists spend one year in Sacramento, California, working as staff in the State Assembly, State Senate, a State Agency, or Offices of the Governor. Fellows get a front-row seat learning about the craft and process of policymaking in the State of California — a dynamic arena that often sets policy trends for the United States and the world.

Apply

Start your application and receive email reminders and guidance along the way. Create a new profile, or update your existing one, and get started in just a few clicks:

• https://webportalapp.com/sp/ccst

Eligibility

• PhD in science, social science, or engineering field* by Sept. 15, 2026
• US citizen or suitable work eligibility status (See FAQ for details.)

Compensation

• Salary ($70,304)
• Paid-time off
• Health, dental, & vision benefits
• Reimbursements for professional development + Relocation

Application Materials

• Resume/CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Two Letters of Recommendation

Career Paths

• Fellows work in a variety of careers following the Fellowship in state and federal government, at nonprofit institutions, academic institutions, federal laboratories, and more.
• Work during the Fellowship can relate directly to a Fellow's PhD, or serve as an opportunity to jump into completely new topics of interest.

Salary and Benefits:

The base salary will be $70,304 (as of January 1, 2026). Although most fellows will be paid the base salary, we have limited flexibility to provide a larger salary for fellows who meet certain criteria of experience and current salary. CCST offers paid-time off, health, dental, and vision benefits, and reimbursements for approved professional development and travel expenditures. In addition, CCST will reimburse up to $4,000 in relocation costs for moves over 50 miles.

More detailed eligibility information, program timeline, FAQ, application webinars, Fellows blog, and the application link can be found at ccst.us/ccst-science-fellows-program.

FAQ:

https://ccst.us/ccst-science-fellows-program/frequently-asked-questions/