ASH Congressional Fellowship 

The ASH Congressional Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for a hematologist to work in a Congressional office on Capitol Hill for an academic year, starting in September, in order to help shape health care and hematology policy. The fellowship aims to provide education about the policymaking process, including Congress’ relationship to the hematology community, as well as an opportunity to educate Congressional members and staff about hematology.

The fellow will attend a week-long orientation and will be able to choose a congressional office with the aid of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The fellow will be paid at the GS-12 Step 10 level and will receive a health care stipend.

Notes From the Hill

Learn about ASH's recent Congressional Fellow, Camille Puronen, MD, MPH, and her efforts to help shape health care and hematology policy through her work in Representative Brian Higgins’ office in Washington, DC. Learn more.

Read more about former fellow Dr. Seid’s unique experience with the ASH Congressional Fellowship Program in ASH News Daily.

Eligibility Requirements

Prospective fellows must meet the following criteria in order to apply:

  • Be an ASH member in good standing and plan to remain a member for the duration of the fellowship
  • Have a doctorate degree
  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Be eligible to receive government funds through SAM (System for Award Management)
  • If the candidate is a male, be registered in the U.S. Selective Service System, if applicable

Federal employees are not eligible to apply.

Application Requirements

A complete application must include:

  1. Completed application form.
  2. Letter of intent from the candidate. The letter should include how the candidate sees the fellowship helping to advance hematology. The candidate should include why he/she wants to participate in the fellowship, how he/she is qualified, what hematology topics interest him/her, what role he/she envisions taking as a fellow, and what outcome he/she hopes to ultimately gain from this experience. The candidate should also demonstrate his/her background, interest, and any experience in hematology and policy work.
  3. Three (3) letters of recommendation. Each letter should include the relationship between the individual providing the reference and the candidate, the standing of the candidate among his/her peers, the candidate's known interest and experience, the ability of the candidate to communicate and to interact productively with individuals and groups, and an opinion about the candidate’s professional future.
  4. A current CV.

Selection and Notification

Interviews will be held for finalists in early March. ASH will select and notify the fellow in late March and offer the spot for the Congressional Fellowship, which begins on September 1 each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information, contact ASH Senior Manager, Legislative Advocacy Tracy Roades.