While there is no ideal candidate, there are certain traits that lead to success in the Fellowship. We are looking for candidates who have:
The base salary will be $70,304 (as of January 1, 2026), which is comparable to the salaries provided to experienced postdoctoral scholars at the University of California. In addition to the base salary, CCST also offers paid-time off, health, dental, and vision benefits, and reimbursements for approved professional development and travel expenditures. In addition, CCST will reimburse up to $4,000 in relocation costs for moves over 50 miles.
Degree
PhD or equivalent in science, social science, or engineering field needed by Sept. 15 of application year (6 months after application deadline, 1.5 months before program start).
Residency
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible to work in the United States, or have an applicable US work visa.*
Salary and Benefits
Salary, paid-time off, health, dental, & vision benefits, reimbursements for approved professional development and relocation.
From a reviewer and selection-panel perspective, competitive CCST candidates consistently show:
✔ 1. Strong Science-to-Policy Translation Skills
CCST values applicants who can:
Explain complex science to non-technical policymakers
Write concise policy briefs
Balance scientific integrity with political realities
Tip: Prior experience in policy writing, advocacy, regulatory science, or public engagement is a major advantage.
✔ 2. Demonstrated Interest in Public Service
Successful applicants clearly articulate:
Why they want to work in government
How science can improve California-specific policy challenges
A long-term commitment to public impact (not just a career pause)
✔ 3. Disciplinary Relevance to California Priorities
Applications are strongest when aligned with:
Public & environmental health
Climate change and resilience
Housing, water, and infrastructure
Emerging technologies (AI, biotech, clean energy)
Health equity and population-level outcomes
✔ 4. Communication & Leadership Ability
Reviewers look for:
Clear, persuasive written statements
Evidence of collaboration across disciplines
Leadership roles or initiative-driven work
✔ 5. Career Stage Fit
Ideal candidates are:
Late postdocs
Early- to mid-career faculty
Clinician-scientists
Senior researchers seeking policy exposure
There is no strict upper age limit, but the fellowship is not designed for current students.
✔ Emphasise policy impact, not publications
✔ Show comfort with ambiguity and fast-paced decision-making
✔ Highlight cross-sector experience (academia ↔ government ↔ NGOs)
✔ Demonstrate interest in California-specific issues
✔ Use clear, non-technical language in essays
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary role | Science-to-policy bridge for California |
| Main funding mechanism | Science & Technology Policy Fellowship |
| Typical support | ~$95k–$105k stipend + benefits |
| Target applicants | PhD/MD-level scientists & engineers |
| Research grants? | ❌ No traditional research project funding |
| Strength | Direct government immersion & policy impact |
🔍 When CCST Is a Good Fit
✔ You want policy impact rather than lab funding
✔ You are interested in government, regulation, or public service
✔ You want to translate scientific evidence into real-world decisions
To be eligible for the Fellows program, candidates must possess the following minimum qualifications:
The following are not eligible to apply:
Sponsor Institute/Organizations: California Council on Science and Technology
Sponsor Type: Corporate/Non-Profit
Address: 1100 11th Street Sacramento, CA 95814
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Mar 02, 2026
Mar 02, 2026
$68,640
Affiliation: California Council on Science and Technology
Address: 1100 11th Street Sacramento, CA 95814
Website URL: https://ccst.us/ccst-science-fellows-program/
Disclaimer:It is mandatory that all applicants carry workplace liability insurance, e.g., https://www.protrip-world-liability.com (Erasmus students use this package and typically costs around 5 € per month - please check) in addition to health insurance when you join any of the onsite Trialect partnered fellowships.