ATLANTA – The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) have joined forces to sponsor a one-year fellowship in Washington, D.C., that will allow the appointed participant to work in the federal government in a technical advisory role. Members of ASHRAE or USGBC may apply.

Possible placement areas include Congress, a federal agency such as the Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, or the General Services Administration, or the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

“Federal government fellowships provide a valuable public service to the nation while at the same time providing engineers and scientists with a unique opportunity to participate directly in the policy-making process,” said Doug Read, ASHRAE program director of government affairs.

“This is an exciting, rewarding, and educational period in their professional careers. This enriching experience enables fellows to bring back to their employers an insider’s perspective on government decision making that can contribute significantly to the mission and vision of the organization.”

The fellowship runs from Sept. 2008 through Aug. 2009. An orientation is conducted through the American Association for the Advancement of Science. A $50,000 stipend will be provided to the selected fellow.

Candidates should possess a doctoral or other terminal degree in engineering or another building-related scientific discipline. Final placement of the selected fellow depends on the needs of the government offices and agencies at the time as well as on the skills and experience of the applicant.

The deadline for applications is May 1. ASHRAE or USGBC members interested in applying for the fellowship should contact Doug Read, ASHRAE program director of government affairs, at 202-833-1830 or dread@ashrae.org.

Publication date: 04/14/2008