Washington Update
Applications Open for 2026/2027 Howard Garrison Advocacy Fellowship
By: CJ NeelyThursday, July 30, 2026
FASEB is now accepting applications for the 2026/2027 Howard Garrison Advocacy Fellowship, a unique opportunity for biological and biomedical researchers at all career stages who are passionate about science advocacy and communication.
In today's landscape, it is increasingly important for scientists to engage directly with elected representatives, policymakers, and the broader public, yet these skills are often overlooked in graduate school curricula. The Howard Garrison Advocacy Fellowship bridges that gap and reinforces FASEB's commitment to advancing science policy, ensuring sustainable funding for scientific research, and supporting the professional development of researchers.
About the Fellowship
The Howard Garrison Advocacy Fellowship is a 10-month cohort experience that runs October 2026 through July 2027, providing instruction in advocacy, science policy, science communications, leadership development, and career exploration outside academia. It is named after Howard Garrison, who served more than 25 years as FASEB's Director of Public Affairs. Program highlights include:
- Science Policy and Advocacy Training: Virtual workshops and online trainings offering an overview of key players in policy and legislative development and a foundational introduction to science policy concepts.
- Capitol Hill Day: Fellows meet with members of the House and Senate or their staff, with support and coaching for communicating with elected officials in Washington, D.C., and in home districts, as well as guidance on submitting op-eds or letters-to-the-editor.
- Leadership and Professional Development: Discussion sessions with science policy and advocacy experts, plus the opportunity to observe (in a nonvoting capacity) monthly FASEB Science Policy Committee meetings and attend the annual FASEB Science Policy Symposium.
- Capstone Project: Fellows apply the advocacy and policy skills built throughout the program to a capstone project.
Applications must be submitted online and are due August 14, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET. To be eligible, applicants must be a biological or biomedical researcher at any career stage who is a current member of a FASEB Full Member society, and must be working or studying in the United States from September 2026 through July 2027. Graduate students must have advanced to PhD candidacy at the time of application.
Don't miss this opportunity to strengthen your voice in science policy. Visit the application site to apply.