The program is aimed at early, mid, and late-career scientists with a doctorate degree. There are no restrictions on age, career level, or specific scientific background. Applicants are not required to have experience in public policy, although such experience and/or a demonstrable interest in applying science to develop public policy are desirable. In their assignments, Fellows will undertake a variety of tasks, some of which may be directly related to their training, but all of which will put demands on their scientific education. For these reasons, successful candidates must:

• Be a member of or applying for membership in the AMS;

• Demonstrate exceptional competence in their area of science;

• Have a Ph.D. in the atmospheric sciences or related areas (in exceptional circumstances, applicants with the equivalent education and experience may be considered);

• Demonstrate sensitivity toward, and knowledge of, political, economic, and social issues;

• Be articulate, literate, flexible, and able to work on a variety of public policy problems with people from diverse professional backgrounds;

• Be comfortable working under pressure and meeting demanding deadlines;

• Be a U.S. citizen; and,

• Not be a federal employee (post-docs at federal agencies are eligible).

Completion of all requirements for the Ph.D. is required for beginning the fellowship year. Ph.D. candidates should be sure that all work on their degree will be completed by July 1 of the year the fellowship begins.