Q: I didn’t receive a confirmation email when I submitted my application.
A: The confirmation email comes from noreply@apps.aaas.org. Please be sure to check your spam folder. Reminder emails and password resets will also come from this email address.
Q: The applicant is around seven years past their terminal degree. Do you count from when applications are due or when the fellowship begins?
A: In general, we count from when the Fellowship begins (June 2020).
Q: When is the letter of support due?
A: A complete application package - including the letter of support from the nominator - is due October 8 at 11:59pm Eastern Time. There are no extensions for required materials.
Q: What is the difference between the candidate’s qualification statement and the letter of support?
A: The candidate’s qualification statement should discuss their approach to public engagement and emphasize the candidate’s public engagement goal(s), intended audience(s), and message(s), as well as how they intend to influence and support public engagement among their colleagues. The letter of support should discuss the candidate’s public engagement work and how their work will be supported within an institutional context.
Q: Does the candidate have to be an AAAS member?
A: If selected, the fellow is required to become a member of AAAS (if they are not already). AAAS does not reimburse Fellows for membership dues. Membership status will not affect the selection committee’s decisions.
Q: Are international applications accepted?
A: Yes. However, all application materials must be submitted in English.
Q: What type of public engagement are you looking for?
A: There are many different approaches to public engagement and no one approach is considered more effective than another. We look for candidates who actively participate in efforts to engage with the public on science- and technology-related issues and promote interactive, meaningful dialogue between science and society.
Q: How will applications be scored?
A: The selection committee will review applications and select Fellows based on excellence in research, a demonstrated commitment to public engagement with science and their interest in building capacity for public engagement within their institution and beyond.
Further inquiries may be directed to the AAAS Center for Public Engagement with Science and Technology via email.