Possible placement areas include Congress, a federal agency such as the Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency or the General Services Administration, or the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

“Federal government fellowships provide a valuable public service to the nation while at the same time providing engineers and scientists with a unique opportunity to participate directly in the policy-making process,” says Doug Read, ASHRAE program director of government affairs. “This is an exciting, rewarding, and educational period in their professional careers. This enriching experience enables fellows to bring back to their employers an insider's perspective on government decision making that can contribute significantly to the mission and vision of the organization.”

“The fellowship is designed to educate participants on the inner workings of federal policy-making,” said Jason Hartke, director of public policy, U.S. Green Building Council.  “The fellowship is an opportunity to provide scientific guidance and analysis to decision-makers, and to increase the visibility and involvement of scientists and engineers in the public policy arena.”   

The fellowship runs from September through August 2009, and an orientation is conducted through the American Association for the Advancement of Science. A $50,000 stipend will be provided to the selected fellow.

Candidates should possess a doctoral or other terminal degree in engineering or another building-related scientific discipline. Final placement of the selected fellow depends on the needs of the government offices and agencies at the time as well as on the skills and experience of the applicant.

 ASHRAE or USGBC members interested in applying for the fellowship should contact Doug Read, ASHRAE program director of government affairs, at 202-833-1830 or dread@ashrae.org.