Congressional Fellowship

Gain public political experience. Advance climate policy.
Create a better world for future generations.

The Climate Solutions Foundation Congressional Fellowship Program is a one-year program that offers a unique opportunity to individuals early in their careers, and those completing their graduate school education, who are interested in climate policy. Selected fellows are placed in a Republican or Democratic office committed to durable policy solutions to advance the agenda on climate.

Fellows bring a deep understanding of climate science in order to help inform the development of responsible, bipartisan climate policies. They work alongside congressional staff in drafting legislation, conducting oversight work, preparing speeches and briefs, and assisting with committee hearings, events, and more. This program provides valuable insights into crafting and advancing legislation, and offers an opportunity to build a strong professional network.

Up to three fellows will be placed from August 2025 to July 2026, in the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives or with a Congressional Committee. The salary for the fellowship is $80,000, plus a $200 monthly reimbursement for health insurance coverage.

Qualifications & Expectations

Qualified candidates must be legally allowed to work in the United States, have a science background, and have or finalize by August 2025 a Master’s Degree or Ph.D. in climate, environmental science, or a relevant field. Candidates must be able to translate complex ideas and dense topics into easily understood written and verbal communications and have a desire to combat climate change through pragmatic solutions. This is an in-person position in Washington, D.C.

To be considered, please submit an online application, no later than Friday, April 4, 2025. The application will ask for the following:

  • Undergraduate and Graduate school(s), courses or study and graduation dates

  • A Resume or CV outlining relevant experience

  • A 500-word essay describing your interest in climate policy and what you hope to learn from the fellowship

  • Two references with names and contact information

Apply Now!

Selection Process

Following the application deadline, materials will be reviewed and selected individuals will participate in a phone interview, meet with Climate Solutions Foundation leadership and interview with their prospective congressional office. Final decisions are expected to be made by the end of June 2025. If you have any questions, please contact csffellowships@climatesolutionsfoundation.com.

MEET OUR FELLOWS

  • EM GREEN

    2024-2025 Fellow with Rep. Scott Peters

    Vermont Law & Graduate School, J.D. and M.S. Environmental Policy & Law; Rutgers University, M.F.A; Baruch Honors College, B.A. English Literature and Natural Sciences

  • RISA FISH

    2024-2025 Fellow with Sen. Michael Bennet

    Georgetown University, M.S. Environment and Sustainability Management; Arizona State University, B.S. in Public Service and Public Policy (Sustainability Concentration)

  • INGRID IZAGUIRRE

    2023-2025 Fellow with Rep. Chrissy Houlahan

    Columbia University, M.Phil. and M.A. Earth and Environmental Sciences; University of Miami, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, B.S. Marine Science and Geology

  • SAMUEL KESSLER

    2024-2025 Fellow with Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick

    University College Dublin, MPP Environmental Policy; University of Louisville, B.S. Environmental Analysis and Industrial Ecology & Public Policy

  • ELINA VANUSKA

    2022-2024 Fellow with New Democrat Coalition

    Georgetown University, M.S. Biomedical Science Policy & Advocacy; University of California Los Angeles, B.S. Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology

Apply Now!

Applications are due no later than Friday, April 4, 2025.

If you have any questions about the fellowship or issues submitting an application,
please contact
CSFFellowships@climatesolutionsfoundation.com