Visiting Policy Fellows Program

The Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment is pleased to announce a new Visiting Policy Fellows Program—an initiative designed to host experts with extensive experience in federal or state agencies whose work has contributed meaningfully to public service and advancing environmental policy. Those with former leadership experience at relevant agencies are encouraged to apply.

The program seeks to bring these professionals into an academic setting where their deep knowledge, practical experience, and understanding of the science-policy interface can enrich university research, teaching, and outreach. Fellows will serve as mentors and collaborators for faculty, postdocs, and graduate students while also contributing to public programming and interdisciplinary dialogue.

Key Objectives:

  • Support and learn from scientists who have experience in the public sector and other experts who have played leadership roles in science or environmental agencies 
  • Enhance understanding of environmental policy, regulation, and applied science among the Stanford and Woods community of researchers and students
  • Create opportunities for Stanford students and Woods researchers to engage with real-world science-policy challenges
  • Promote dialogue between academia, government, and civil society on urgent environmental issues 

Fellowship Details

  • Term: One quarter up to one academic year 
  • Location: Hybrid – one week per month on campus
  • Compensation: No salary, insurance, or health benefits will be provided by Stanford. However, reimbursement for reasonable living and travel expenses will be available upon submission of receipts and prior approval.
  • Resources: Office space, research support, access to university libraries, labs, and facilities

Expectations of Visiting Policy Fellows

  • Participate in at least one public webinar or event during the fellowship
  • Offer guest lectures or workshops in graduate and undergraduate courses as part of Woods’ new Preparing Scientists for Public Policy Engagement Initiative 
  • Speak at a workshop for the Rising Environmental Leaders Program (RELP)
  • Lead or co-lead a policy training session for faculty
  • Engage in collaborative research or writing with institute-affiliated faculty or students
  • Help organize rapid response from the Woods research community to urgent inquiries from or time sensitive events for policy-makers 
  • Participate in regular Woods community meetings 

Who Should Apply 

Applications from scientists, policy analysts, technical staff are welcome as well from those who have held leadership positions in federal agencies such as:

  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
  • U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
  • Department of Energy (DOE)
  • U.S. Forest Service
  • Other relevant science or regulatory bodies

Applicants should have at least 10 years of experience in a science or policy-focused federal role and a demonstrated record of contributions to environmental research, regulation, or public engagement. Priority consideration will be given to applicants with expertise in Woods core areas of interest including GHG and carbon emission mitigation, natural climate solutions, response and adaptation to extreme weather events such as drought, wildfire, and flooding, and resilient food and water systems.

Application Requirements

  • Cover Letter (2 pages max): Describe your interest in the fellowship, your federal experience, and how you plan to contribute to the academic community at Stanford.
  • CV or Resume
  • Statement of Impact (1–2 pages): Outline a potential project, seminar series, or collaborative initiative you would pursue during the fellowship.
  • References: Names and contact information for two professional references 

Application Deadline: Applications for the Visiting Policy Fellowship will be considered on a rolling basis and may be submitted at any time.

Start Date: Rolling, with preferred start in Fall Quarter 2025 or Winter Quarter 2026

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through the Visiting Policy Fellows application portal on the Woods Institute’s website: 

For questions, please contact: Lea Rosenbohm, Director of Policy & Engagement, lrosenbohm@stanford.edu