Welcome to the USAID Science for Development Fellowships Program.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) established the Science for Development Fellowships program (SDF), as a two-year experiential professional development opportunity for American scientists and engineers to work at USAID and apply their expertise and research skills to inform the U.S. government’s international development activities and support their success. Applications for the 2026-2028 class of SDF Fellows will open July 2025.
USAID is the world's premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results. USAID leads international development and humanitarian efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, and help people progress beyond assistance. Learn more about USAID.
Become a Catalyst for Change.
As you think about how you can apply your academic and lab expertise to push the boundaries of science for global good, it's important to be aware of, fully understand, and be prepared to accept the requirements and obligations of becoming a Science for Development Fellow. Please carefully review this website for details regarding program elements, eligibility, application components, selection process and scoring, mandatory U.S. citizenship, selective service registration, and security clearance requirements. This information is provided to help interested individuals determine whether the fellowship is a good fit (now or in the future) and to support the development of a competitive application.
Please send questions to the SDF Team.
Fellowship Program Goals
Expanding and improving capacity for the application of science, technology, and innovation across USAID’s development sectors is vital to achieving the Agency’s broad and ambitious global development objectives. The Science for Development Fellowships (SDF) program is designed to accomplish this through three strategies:
- Increasing direct application of S&T knowledge and expertise at USAID by engaging Science for Development Fellows across the programming of the Agency.
- Strengthening the professional capabilities of participating scientists and engineers to inform, develop, and advance evidence-based practices and policies that improve international development activities and results.
- Establishing a network of higher education institutions (HEIs) committed to advancing STEMM education that contributes to creating solutions to global challenges, and supports SDF to leverage the experience and skills of their STEMM graduate students, postdocs, and faculty.
Two-Year Commitment
SDF provides a two-year immersive experience with expectation for commitment to and completion of the full 24 months. Fellows are assigned to specific USAID offices for the two years. Fellows who complete the two-year period in good standing may have the opportunity to continue for a full third year at USAID as a Advisory Fellow.
Washington, DC-Based
As an immersive S&T workforce augmentation and professional development initiative, SDF is Washington, DC-based. Fellows are assigned to in-person placements with offices at USAID, and all fellows must be located in the DC area (relocation support is provided). Fellows will operate on the schedule of their assigned office; USAID generally operates on a hybrid, three-day in office and two-day telework week.
Career Stage
The program is generally focused on early- to mid-career scientists and engineers, from those completing a qualifying degree by the start of the fellowship up to approximately 10 years beyond receipt of a qualifying degree.
International Development Experience
Applicants are not required to have prior experience in international development. However, it is important to clarify through the personal statement (and interview if selected as a semi-finalist) genuine interest in applying science and technical skills at USAID and to global development efforts.
Qualifying Disciplines
The SDF program is open to individuals who hold a qualifying doctorate degree across a broad range of STEMM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, math, medicine), including social sciences. In addition, individuals who hold a master’s of science (MS) in an engineering discipline are eligible (such as an MS in biomedical engineering, electrical and software engineering, environmental engineering, industrial and systems engineering, material and sustainability engineering, mechanical engineering).
- Computer and Data Sciences (including artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, cybersecurity, data analytics)
- Engineering (for example, civil engineering, biomedical engineering, atmospheric sciences, environmental engineering, materials sciences)
- Interdisciplinary Sciences (such as climate science, environmental science, geography, international relations, oceanography, urban policy or planning)
- Life Sciences (including agriculture, biology, botany, ecology)
- Mathematical Sciences (for example, astronomy, pure and applied mathematics, statistics)
- Physical Sciences (such as chemistry, earth sciences, hydrology, physics)
- Public Health and Medicine (including dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, veterinary medicine)
- Social Sciences (for example anthropology, economics, linguistics, political science, psychology, sociology)
The qualifying degree must be completed by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on January 1, 2025. This includes any elements required for completion of the degree, such as submission of final dissertation text and sign-off from doctoral committee members. Proof of completion is required.
U.S. Citizenship
Applicants must hold U.S. Citizenship (permanent residency and green card status does not qualify). SDF welcomes applicants with dual citizenship. It is important to understand that dual citizenship may lead to security clearance delays. Security clearance delays may affect the ability to begin a fellowship placement.
Security Clearance
To begin and remain in the fellowship program, all finalists who are offered and accept a fellowship position must be able to obtain and maintain either a Public Trust background investigation approval (also known as a Facility Access), or a Security Clearance, which is dependent on the level designated for their USAID fellowship host office. Fellowships will begin on October 1, 2025, only after a finalist secures either a designated Public Trust/Facility Clearance or an interim Security Clearance by September 15, 2025. Fellows may not defer if a significant investigation delay is encountered.
Selective Service Registration (male applicants only)
All male fellowship applicants must confirm that they have registered for selective service, as required of male citizens of the U.S. Government. Failure to meet the selective service requirement will result in disqualification from the SDF program. For information about selective service registration, go to: https://www.sss.gov/.
SDF Inclusion Commitment, Disability Policy, and Diversity Statement
The Science for Development Fellowships program is committed to upholding USAID’s Gender, Inclusive Development Policy, Disability Policy, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategy through its design and execution across all operations. SDF strives for diversity in its many forms in the fellowship classes and in all processes and partnerships (including an emphasis on Minority Serving Institutions in the HEI Network). SDF applies monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) data to enable and enhance equity, inclusion and accessibility to the opportunities of the fellowship.
Application Components and Steps
A complete application for a USAID Science for Development Fellowship includes the following components and steps. Applications that do not include all components below will be designated as ineligible.
- Registration with Contact Information
- Eligibility Confirmations
- Applicant Profile Details
- Education History and Qualifying Degree (applicant must request degree verification documentation from university and upload to application by the deadline)
- Experience, Employment, and Professional Record (submission of maximum 5-page Curriculum Vitae)
- Brief Bio (250 word-limit)
- Personal Statement (800-word limit)
- Additional Skills/Languages
- Recommendations (three letters must be submitted directly by designated references via the online SDF application portal)
- Demographic Data (optional)
- Verifications of Commitment and Availability, Conflict of Interest Acknowledgement, Understanding of Fellowship Employment Status, Application Accuracy
- Final Review
- Submit
Helpful Tips
- Create and save electronic copies of the brief bio, Curriculum Vitae (CV), and personal statement (instead of only typing them directly into the online application), so they may be accessed in case of any technical challenges.
- Write the bio and personal statement in a separate document using a plain text application, such as Notepad or Rich Text Format (RTF). Then copy/paste the text into the available boxes in the application. Using a plain text application will avoid carryover of embedded formatting that may create layout problems and/or increase word count.
- Remove double spacing between sentences and use only one space between sentences and paragraphs to avoid spaces adding to the word count.
- Save the CV as a PDF once completed and formatted and upload it as a PDF to maintain its appearance and format.
- Contact three references and confirm the best email for them to receive instructions and reminders from the SDF online application system. Provide references with a copy of the brief bio, CV, and personal statement well in advance of the application deadline so that references will have complete information to compose and submit a supportive letter of recommendation. Reference letters will be accepted only via the online system. Letters mailed or emailed separately will not be accepted. Please inform your references to check their junk mail, quarantine folder or spam filter for an email from noreply@usaid-sdf.usmax.com with the instructions to submit the letter of recommendation. The email message from the online application system does not always go through directly to a reference’s inbox.
Selection Process
The SDF program seeks highly skilled scientists and engineers who are interested in direct application of their expertise to address global development challenges and wish to broaden their experience and circles of influence through a challenging and rewarding term of engagement in the federal government at the U.S. Agency for International Development in Washington, DC.
While fellows will be drawn from different disciplines and backgrounds, common characteristics that define Science for Development Fellows as a whole include scientific/technical curiosity and creativity, a spirit of collaboration and interdisciplinary connectivity to tackle challenges and achieve goals, and a determination to make a difference.
The selection process involves the following steps:
- Initial Review: All applications submitted by the deadline are reviewed by SDF staff to confirm eligibility.
- Scoring: All eligible applications are read and scored by independent Selection Panels (each application will be reviewed and scored by a minimum of three panelists using designated selection criteria and scoring structure).
- Z-score Ranking: A Z-score formula is applied following application scoring to rank order candidates.
- Semi-finalist Designation: The 60 top-scoring applicants are designated as semi-finalists, and each is invited to participate in a 30-minute online interview with a Selection Panel (generally eight panelists). Semi-finalists are informed of the interview structure and provided guidance and tips for successful online interviews.
- Selection Interview: To determine the pool of finalists to move forward to the placement process, panelists first interview, then score again, and rank semi-finalists using the designated selection criteria and scoring structure.
- Finalist Notification: Finalists are notified and provided dates, information, and guidance on participation in the placement interview process, including a list of USAID offices participating to host fellows.
Criteria and Scoring
The following criteria and scoring system across three areas will be used to evaluate eligible applications. These should be considered in crafting the brief bio and personal statement. References will be informed of the selection criteria and scoring to inform development of letters of recommendation. A perfect score is 100 points.
Record of Accomplishment
40 points maximum
Academic/S&T Achievement (1-30 points)
Demonstrated scientific/technical achievement of the highest quality, analytical skill, and problem-solving ability appropriate to career stage.
Scientific/Technical Curiosity (1-10 points)
Evidence of intellectual curiosity, creative energy, and inventive, resourceful approaches to research and projects.
Fellowship Match
30 points maximum
Programmatic Alignment (1-15 points)
Alignment between personal and professional goals and the SDF objectives and opportunities, with clear rationale for applying to the fellowship. Capacity to make connections between science and technology and broader economic, social, political contexts and issues with ability to translate and apply theoretical concepts into practice to address challenges and forge solutions.
Collaboration and Communication (1-15 points)
Confidence, maturity, and self-direction with the capacity, initiative, and flexibility to work well independently and in interdisciplinary groups, communicate clearly and persuasively, and be receptive and respectfully responsive to others’ input.
Leadership and Service
30 points maximum
Focus on Contribution (1-15 points)
Initiative to apply personal talents and S&T acumen to catalyze positive change for society, and to advance international development results.
Character and Leadership (1-15 points)
Sincere and demonstrated capacity for S&T leadership; self-awareness, empathy, and flexibility to tackle issues beyond areas of expertise, establish realistic expectations, and work with a range of non-scientific stakeholders; open-minded and motivated to take advantage of emerging opportunities, persevere through challenges, and operate with integrity.
The demonstration of ability in these three areas is through academic and employment record, research grants and projects, publications, and honors and awards detailed in the CV; and through examples of engagement in extracurricular activities at academic institutions, in employment or beyond, and the roles and accomplishments in those efforts highlighted in the brief bio, personal statement, and summary of professional/leadership activities. For example, involvement in university governance, with community groups, professional associations, advisory and editorial committees, nonprofit organizations, or outreach and teaching to non-scientific audiences. Achievement and potential across all three of these criteria areas also will be ascertained through letters of recommendation.
2024 - 2026 SDF Class
CHARLA BURNETT
Global Governance & Human Security, PhDUniversity of Massachusetts, Boston
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Charla M. Burnett is a distinguished scientist and research methodologist with over a decade of experience in international development and impact evaluation. She has managed and supported global projects focused on migration, climate change, health, and humanitarian mapping. Charla is a German Marshall Fund Diversity and Equity Inclusion Fellow, and a two-time Community Leadership Award recipient from the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she received a PhD in Global Governance and Human Security. Currently Charla is a data scientist at Michigan State University, where she facilitates international business development through data science and artificial intelligence. Her interdisciplinary research encompasses human security, gender development, and participatory mapping, emphasizing inclusive approaches for underrepresented peoples. Charla has authored numerous publications, including the 2023 volume "Evaluating Participatory Mapping Software.
BRIGID CAKOUROS
Interdisciplinary Global Health, DrPHUniversity of California, Berkeley
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Brigid Cakouros approaches her work from a curiosity driven, systems thinking perspective. Always questioning and exploring the "big picture", she works best when navigating complex healthcare access issues with an interdisciplinary team. Brigid centers her work on resilient and sustainable interventions, and while she's trained in qualitative and evaluative methodologies, she prefers to also include mixed methods and strategic foresight to better inform a decision-making process. Brigid began her public health career by building models of vaccine cold chains with a team of engineers, computer scientists, and public health professionals. This work sparked her interest in complex systems. She has since worked on a range of systems-focused projects, from studying the impact of long-term asbestos exposure on a community in Pennsylvania to the accessibility of PrEP among women near two clinics in Zimbabwe. Brigid explored health systems resilience as a postdoctoral fellow under Professor Lucy Gilson at the University of Cape Town, and she continued as a postdoctoral associate at Yale University on the BRIDGE-U: Liberia project supporting health system strengthening activities at the University of Liberia and studying equity within international partnerships. She recently consulted with the Centre for Sustainability Transitions at the University of Stellenbosch by assisting with the application of strategic foresight methodologies to better understand points of leverage to shape the future of research for development. Brigid attended the University of Pittsburgh for both her BA (nonfiction writing, 2009) and her MPH (Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, 2012), and attended the University of California, Berkeley for her DrPH (2020.) Outside of work, Brigid enjoys spending time exploring on her bike, testing new recipes, and joyfully refining her ceramics hobby. Although she's lived in a few different states, Brigid remains a dedicated Philadelphia sports fan.
ADRIANA CAMPOS
Public Health, PhDUniversity of South Florida
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Adriana Campos is an Ecuadorian-American epidemiologist and public heath practitioner. She earned her PhD in Public Health, specializing in Epidemiology at the University of South Florida.Additionally, she has an MPH in Epidemiology and Global Health Practice and is a certified Public Health Practitioner (CPH). Adriana is passionate about multiple aspects of epidemiology and global health practice, ranging from infectious diseases to program development and implementation. She has worked in multiple disciplines spanning from health services research, pharmacoepidemiology, global health practice, and traditional academic research. Adriana currently works for her alma mater as an instructor, and as a consultant to the World Health Organization's Africa Regional Office.
FIONA COLEMAN
International Nutrition, PhDCornell University
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Dr. Fiona Coleman is an applied global nutrition scientist with over 8 years of experience implementing, evaluating, and informing international development programs. Dr. Coleman earned her Ph.D. in International Nutrition from Cornell University, where she was an NIH trainee in Translational Nutrition Science. Her doctoral research was based in Bangladesh and Madagascar, where she focused on multi-sectoral approaches for addressing malnutrition and its underlying causes. Her interest in this work is rooted in her experiences as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Zambia, where she lived in a rural village for two years and worked on projects related to food security, health, and conservation agriculture. Dr. Coleman is looking forward to her SDF placement in USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance.
CHELSEA DUCILLE
Maternal & Child Health, PhDUniversity of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
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Chelsea Ducille is a global public health researcher with a focus on maternal and child health. She has an MSPH in Population, Family, and Reproductive Health from Johns Hopkins University, and a PhD in Maternal and Child Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chelsea's research focuses on access to healthcare, maternal autonomy and reproductive health education, and the effects of international social and financial networks on family health and care seeking behavior. This extends to her dissertation, where Chelsea examined the impacts of remittances on household healthcare, specifically the use of skilled delivery at birth and child health and growth.
STÉPHIE-ANNE DULIÈPRE
Veterinary Medicine, DVMCornell University
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Stéphie-Anne C. Dulièpre is a clinical veterinarian in Maryland, covering a variety of specialties including critical care and surgery. For two years Stéphie-Anne served as a supervisory public health veterinary officer for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Pennsylvania, where she oversaw nearly 20 percent of the state, while in charge of monitoring for foreign animal diseases, appropriate antimicrobial use in food animals, and enforcement of regulations in the food animal sector. Following her time at the USDA, Stéphie-Anne moved to Baltimore, MD where she served as one of two lead veterinarians for the Maryland SPCA prior to beginning her MPH studies. In addition, she has worked with the Jane Goodall Institute in Uganda, Conservation Through Public Health, and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Stéphie-Anne also serves in numerous leadership roles in professional organizations, such as the Multicultural Veterinary Medical Association (MCVMA), and the American Public Health Association (APHA). She is passionate about anything involving justice, health equity, policy, and conservation. Stéphie-Anne holds a BA triple degree in Biology, Math & Statistics, and Dance from CUNY Hunter College in NYC. She received her DVM from the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, and an MPH with a concentration in Global Environmental Sustainability and Health from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She is a proud Haitian-American, and spent her childhood living in Port-au-Prince, Haiti prior to coming to New York. Baltimore now also has her heart. In her free time, Stéphie-Anne can be found in a museum, dancing/choreographing, walking along the harbor, or listening to an audiobook. He has worked in multiple disciplines spanning from health services research, pharmacoepidemiology, global health practice, and traditional academic research. Adriana currently works for her alma mater as an instructor, and as a consultant to the World Health Organization's Africa Regional Office.
SARAH DUMAS
Veterinary Medicine, DVM - Epidemiology & International Nutrition, PhDCornell University
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Sarah Dumas has expertise in epidemiology, One Health, maternal and early child nutrition, veterinary medicine, livestock and poultry production, and food security, with more than 12 years of experience in project management, team leadership, and interdisciplinary collaborations. She holds a DVM and a PhD in Epidemiology and International Nutrition from Cornell University and received her undergraduate degree in Biology from Pomona College. Sarah has conducted research in Zambia and Kenya, collaborating with NGOs to study the roles that livestock, particularly poultry, play in the resilience of rural communities. She also has experience as a livestock veterinarian in Illinois. Sarah later focused on domestic public health during her six years with the NYC Department of Health as an epidemiologist, developing and conducting large-scale surveys, managing data analysis, and implementing research communication to policymakers and the public. Currently she works for the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School leading survey research projects in health and social services. Sarah lives with her family in Washington, DC.
KORIE GRAYSON
Biomedical Engineering, PhDCornell University
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Korie Grayson is a chemist, biomedical engineer, STEM diversity advocate, and an AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow placed in the new Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships Directorate at the National Science Foundation. She is passionate about workforce development to support innovation ecosystems, capacity building, and experiential learning opportunities. Korie advocates for increasing the number of underrepresented groups in STEM by illustrating that #representationmatters through storytelling, public speaking, and social media. She is a part of numerous STEM initiatives focused on empowering young adults traditionally underrepresented in STEM to launch and build successful STEM careers. Korie is a first-generation college student and proud alumna of the HBCU Norfolk State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Chemistry. Korie obtained her MS and PhD degrees in Biomedical Engineering from Cornell University, where she studied cancer drug resistance in 2D and 3D prostate cancer cell culture environments. As a postdoctoral research fellow in chemical engineering at the University of Michigan, Korie addressed evaluation of novel nano- and microparticles for therapy in inflammatory diseases and colorectal cancer.
BETTY BUGUSU KANANI
Food Science, PhDPurdue University
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Betty Bugusu Kanani is a food scientist and a research management professional with more than 15 years of experience leading complex research projects in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, South America, and the US. She acquired this experience through years of demonstrated research and leadership capacity in multidisciplinary, cross-functional, and cross-cultural environments. Her research expertise is in food processing and formulation, food fortification, food safety, food nanoscience, food packaging, and food policy. In her work, Betty researches and implements food innovations to improve food and nutrition access and availability. Betty is currently the Technical Director for LASER PULSE (Long-term Assistance and Services for Research Partners for University-Led Solutions Engine), a consortium-based program funded by USAID and led by the Purdue Applied Research Institute. She provides technical and research translation leadership to a multimillion-dollar research operation of 50 research projects in 20 countries aimed at strengthening the role of research in shaping international development policy and practice globally. Before LASER PULSE, she was the inaugural managing director for the International Food Technology Center at Purdue. Betty also served as the director of the Feed the Future Food Processing and Postharvest Handling Innovation Lab, which was funded by USAID. She worked with fellow researchers to develop, adapt, and introduce novel food processing technologies to enhance food security, economic growth, and gender empowerment in the program's focus countries.
ALEX KONG
Pharmacy, PharmDUniversity of Kansas
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Alex Kong is an interdisciplinary scientist with training cutting across the public health, clinical, and laboratory sciences. He recently completed his PhD in International Health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, where his research focused on new and emerging approaches and technologies to conducting integrated serological surveillance in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Serological surveillance can be used to identify infectious disease outbreaks and to estimate a community's level of immunity or exposure to certain diseases to help guide public health interventions and decision-making. Before his PhD, Alex was an R&D Researcher for the Access to Medicine Foundation in Amsterdam, contributing to the assessment and ranking of pharmaceutical companies' efforts to expand access to health technologies in LMICs. He holds a PharmD and BS from the University of Kansas, where he also worked in the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry. Alex supplemented his laboratory training through research characterizing different forms of antibiotic resistance as an Amgen Scholar at Washington University in St. Louis, and as a Gates Cambridge Scholar at the University of Cambridge, where he earned an MPhil in Biological Sciences through the Department of Pharmacology.
RACHAEL LAU
Civil & Environmental Engineering, PhDDuke University
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Rachael Lau specializes in geophysical disaster modeling, risk, and resiliency - combining classic physics-driven models with remote sensing. With a passion for disaster mitigation, water resources engineering, and promoting equitable infrastructure tools for vulnerable populations, Rachael works at the crossroads of engineering and policy, contributing to informed decision-making at both technical and governance levels. Her graduate academic journey included a 2022 Fulbright Research Award in Nepal and a Rhodes Graduate Fellowship in Interdisciplinary Research. Rachael's commitment to addressing global challenges is evident in previous roles as a co-founder of the National Academy of Engineering's Call to Action on the COVID-19 Crisis, which she launched in 2020. She co-founded and managed the Kathmandu Geo Lab, an international research cohort on geohazard risk and resiliency between Duke University and Tribhuvan University in Nepal, in addition to coordinating initiatives for Engineers Without Borders USA at the state, regional, and national levels. Rachael is a 2024 Citizen Diplomacy Action Fund grantee, building multi-lingual disaster literacy programs directed at earthquake response for vulnerable populations in southern Kazakhstan. In addition to her interest in disaster research, she is trained in Rapid Seismic Damage Assessment and Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue. Rachael's professional interests extend beyond engineering, encompassing education access, women's and children's rights, and grassroots technology.
COLLEEN O'BRIEN
Environmental Engineering, PhDNorthwestern University
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Colleen O'Brien is an environmental engineer focused on helping cities adapt to climate change. Colleen received her MS in Water Resources Engineering from Tufts University, and her PhD in Environmental Engineering from Northwestern University. Her research focused on using nature-based solutions to help cities become more resilient to flooding. Colleen has experience working internationally on water and sanitation in Southeast Asia and on water diplomacy in the Middle East. Prior to her PhD, she also worked in engineering consulting, helping cities and towns in New England develop climate adaptation and stormwater management plans.
ANNIE PATRICK
Science & Technology Studies, PhDVirginia Tech
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Annie Patrick is an interdisciplinary researcher and scholar in applied science and technology studies. Her career spans several disciplines and professions connected through her passion for learning, investigating the world around her, and deeply engaging in her surrounding communities for improved outcomes. Annie's research integrates her experience and knowledge in technology and innovation, care work, community engagement, engineering studies, healthcare, and social justice within STEM contexts. She has implemented best practices from engineering education and the social sciences in a series of recent projects on identity, recognition, and cross-disciplinary collaborations within STEM. Most recently she served as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Studio for Transforming Engineering Learning and Research (STELAR) Lab at Georgia Tech's Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering. She obtained her PhD in Science and Technology Studies from Virginia Tech. In addition, she holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Mississippi College, and an associate's degree in Nursing from Holmes Community College. After a nursing career working in a variety of specialties, Annie became interested in technology while studying Library and Information Science and completed a Master of Science in Network Technology and Cybersecurity at East Carolina University.
MONICA TRIGG
Public Health, DrPHUniversity of South Florida
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Monica Trigg completed her Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH) in 2023. She investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's agency (empowerment) in Latin America and the Caribbean. Employing a systems thinking approach, her research explored how women navigated gendered disparities in economic and health autonomy, looking in particular at household/caregiving expectations, exposure to violence, and reduced access to contraception. She applied a systems thinking approach to the socio-ecological model, examining an amplification effect across government, community, and household strata. Finally, Monica's research examined the role of global development organizations in mitigating these challenges and fostering agency among women in response to current and future contexts. Prior, and in parallel, to pursuing her doctorate, Monica has enjoyed a rewarding career in public health with experience across governmental, non-governmental, and academic sectors, both domestically and internationally. She holds a master's degree in Public Health and a bachelor's degree in Anthropology.
AISHA UDOCHI-AMOLO
Economics, PhDHoward University
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Aisha Udochi-Amolo is a third-generation economist, and received her PhD from Howard University, concentrating in growth and development theory. She is the founder of Dao Fei Consults LLC, a business development and research consultancy firm. Aisha is a Non-Resident Fellow for the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa. And she is a Sasakawa Peace Foundation Fellow, where her research centers on advancing financial inclusion by improving data quality and leveraging insights derived from transforming big datasets into dependable macroeconomic statistics. Recognized for her work on indigenous microenterprises, Aisha served as Special Advisor to the Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Commissioner for Abia State in 2020, where she led a redesign of the state's industrialization strategy. Her findings were recently published in The Palgrave Handbook of Africa's Economic Sectors. Aisha holds two master's degrees, in Chinese Studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, and in International Relations from Harvard University. She earned her undergraduate degree in International Business and Business Economics from New York University's Stern School of Business. Aisha has lived and worked in New York, Abuja, London, Beijing, and Boston. Currently, she is based in Washington D.C. Aisha speaks Mandarin and is a devout yoga practitioner.
LIYA WELDEGEBRIEL
Environmental Engineering, PhDUniversity of California, Berkeley
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Liya Weldegebriel is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Center on Food Security and the Environment at Stanford University. Her research broadly links ecohydrology and ecosystem services. Her PhD addressed technical challenges of adopting and upscaling soil and water conservation practices by developing low-cost performance evaluation methods and synthesizing field investigations in hydrological models to predict effective interventions in the Ethiopian Highlands. Liya's current research projects include using remotely sensed satellite imagery and statistical tools to assess the impact of armed conflict on agricultural food production and to monitor efficiency of conservation practices in Ethiopia. She grew up and attended high school in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Liya received her undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering with a water resources concentration from North Carolina State University, where she graduated summa cum laude. As an undergrad she served as University Honors Program Ambassador and was an active member of Women in Science and Engineering. After graduation Liya joined a design firm as an associate hydraulic design engineer before beginning her PhD program in Environmental Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, focusing on Development Engineering. At UC Berkeley, Liya was granted an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, and she won an outstanding student presentation award from the American Geophysical Union. She served as the president and a board member for the Black Graduate Engineering and Science Students at UC Berkeley. Liya participated in COP28 as a delegate representing Stanford's Doerr School of Sustainability.
Fellowship Experience, Benefits, and Opportunities
The USAID Science for Development Fellowships (SDF) program is a two-year, immersive professional development opportunity for American scientists and engineers to work at USAID and apply their expertise in science and technology and their research skills to inform and enhance the U.S. government’s international development activities and support their success. The program’s many benefits include:
- Direct experience in evidence-based federal decision-making, policy, and practice addressing global development challenges across a broad range of issues
- Skill-building trainings, mentoring, and career support for post-fellowship pursuits
- International travel to engage in USAID initiatives around the world
- Expansion of professional contacts and networks
- Competitive salary and benefits
- A path to provide valuable public service to the U.S. government that benefits our nation and people around the world
USAID leads international development and humanitarian efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance and help people progress beyond assistance. USAID works in over 100 countries to: Promote Global Health, Support Global Stability, Provide Humanitarian Assistance, Catalyze Innovation and Partnership, and Empower Women and Girls. USAID is leveraging the promise of innovation, technology and research to bring about positive change and solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges. USAID partners with entrepreneurs, small businesses, researchers, universities, technology companies, government, civil society, faith-based organizations, and development professionals to keep the Agency on the forefront of science and technology, incorporate breakthrough innovations, and apply the best tools to emerging priorities. Evidence-based decision making and the latest technical solutions can be applied to address many of USAID’s priority technical areas. Learn more about USAID and the technical areas of focus at https://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do
Fellowship assignments will vary depending on placements at USAID, and include a wide range of projects to tap fellows’ scientific and technical expertise and research skills, such as: supporting program or activity management, organizing and participating in site visits, providing input to the development of policies and strategies, designing new programs, creating communication products to translate S&T information for development objectives, serving on scientific committees or technical working groups, conducting research or analyses, engaging in interagency collaborations, and much more.
This immersive fellowship opportunity is located in Washington, DC, with placements at the USAID headquarters.
The fellowships operate on a hybrid schedule as mandated by USAID, with up to two days each week working from home, in line with current health and safety policies. Individual host offices will determine the specifics of the work schedule.
The Science for Development Fellowships are two-year opportunities (24 months). Fellows who successfully complete two years are eligible to serve an additional full third year at USAID in the capacity of Advisory Fellow, based upon mutual agreement with the SDF program, the USAID host office, and the fellow.
Each fellowship class begins on October 1. Individuals accepting a fellowship must sign an agreement acknowledging the two-year commitment.
No. The Science for Development Fellowships are available only as 24-month opportunities.
Yes. Fellows will have the option, if interested, to complete one detail or rotation with another USAID Operating Unit (may include another Mission, Bureau, Independent Office (M/B/IOs)); another office/team within the fellow’s existing placement Bureau; or within their host office/team working on a unique developmental assignment. These short-term opportunities will range between one to three months, and may be full-time or part-time, depending on the needs of the host office and rotation office.
There are two SDF salary levels mandated by USAID. These are based on years of experience and designated General Schedule (GS) equivalent remuneration at GS 12 and GS 13. The GS rates are determined annually by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The fellowship salary levels and GS equivalents are as follows:
Level 1: 0 through 6 years of full-time equivalent applicable professional experience.
Year 1 = GS 12, step 1
Year 2 = GS 13, step 6
Level 2: More that 6 years of full-time equivalent applicable professional experience.
Year 1 = GS 12, step 6
Year 2 = GS 13, step 6
Academic positions and educational internships held while in a graduate degree program are not included, for example: residential assistant, teaching assistant.
Below is information on how the fellowship salaries will be determined for the 2025-2027 SDF class:
Year 1, Level 1
GS 12 step 1 equivalent per OPM GS levels designated in January 2025
(remains constant through full first year – October 2025 through September 2027)
As an example, the current Year 1, Level 1 fellowship salary is $99,200
Year 1, Level 2
GS 12 step 6 equivalent: per OPM GS levels designated in January 2025
(remains constant through full first year – October 2025 through September 2026)
As an example, the current Year 1, Level 2 fellowship salary is $115,731
_______________________
Year 2, Level 1
GS 13, step 2 equivalent: per OPM GS levels designated in January 2026
(remains constant through full second year – October 2026 through September 2027)
As an example, the current GS 13, step 2 salary is: $121,894
Year 2, Level 2
GS 13, step 6 equivalent: per OPM GS levels designated in January 2026
(remains constant through full second year – October 2026 through September 2027)
As an example, the current GS 13, step 6 salary is: $137,624
______________________
A third-year extension is an option based on successful fellowship performance outcomes in years 1 and 2, and approval by the USAID host office and USmax-SDF.
Year 3, Level 1
GS 13, step 3 equivalent: per OPM GS levels designated in January 2027
(remains constant through full third year – October 2027 through September 2028)
Year 3, Level 2
GS 13, step 7 equivalent: per OPM GS levels designated in January 2027
(remains constant through full third year – October 2027 through September 2028)
The annual fellowship increases designated by USAID in the SDF contract that are based on starting at either a Level 1 or Level 2 salary and will prevail throughout the period of the fellowship. The SDF salary levels follow the U.S. Government guidelines issued by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which state that salaries accepted based on the assessment of experience at the time of hire are not renegotiated. This means that the fellowship salary level designated with a contingent fellowship employment offer will not change for the duration of the fellowship. This is consistent with how USAID staff are hired and receive salary increases over the years.
You can view the GS salary charts for the DC area issued by OPM at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/2024/general-schedule/. These are updated each January. Typically, there is an increase; however, that is determined by the United States Government each year and not guaranteed.
Benefits include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Metro transit benefits for the DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) metropolitan area
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage
- Minimum of 7 days of paid sick leave and 14 days of paid personal leave per year
- Paid time off for all federal holidays
- Paid family/medical leave for the birth, adoption or foster of a new child, or family medical emergency
- Relocation support of $4,500 (taxable) if moving from more than 50 miles away
No. Science for Development Fellows will not be federal employees at USAID, and they will not receive U.S. government employee benefits. Fellows will hold the status of Institutional Support Contractors and will be employees of USmax Corporation – the contractor managing the Science for Development Fellowships on behalf of USAID – or employees of Social Solutions International, which is a subcontractor to USmax Corporation for the SDF program.
The SDF program will strive to be flexible to accommodate paid leave or unpaid time taken (e.g., family leave), depending on agreement with the USAID host office.
No. Qualification for PSLF is determined by a variety of factors including the classification of the employer. SDF Fellows will be hired through for-profit companies, and therefore they will not be eligible for PSLF.
Eligibility and Application
Applicants must be U.S. citizens, hold a qualifying STEMM degree, be able to obtain the designated background investigation approval/security clearance (depending on fellowship host office) in the allocated time frame, and have completed selective service registration (male applicants only). The fellowship requires a commitment to complete the full 24-month fellowship at USAID, and to be located in the Washington, DC area.
The Call for Applications for the 2025-27 class of Science for Development Fellowships opens August 1, 2024, with a deadline of November 4, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., ET.
The fellowships are open to individuals who hold a qualifying doctoral-level degree across a broad range of STEMM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, math, medicine), including social sciences. Individuals holding a master's of science degree in an engineering field also are eligible.
Degrees in disciplines within the following broad academic fields are eligible:
- Computer and Data Sciences (including artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, cybersecurity, data analytics)
- Engineering (for example, civil engineering, biomedical engineering, atmospheric sciences, environmental engineering, materials sciences)
- Interdisciplinary Sciences (such as climate science, environmental science, geography, international relations, oceanography, urban policy or planning)
- Life Sciences (including agriculture, biology, botany, ecology)
- Mathematical Sciences (for example, astronomy, pure and applied mathematics, statistics)
- Physical Sciences (such as chemistry, earth sciences, hydrology, physics)
- Public Health and Medicine (including dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, veterinary medicine)
- Social Sciences (for example anthropology, economics, linguistics, political science, psychology, sociology)
The qualifying degree must be complete by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on January 1, 2025. This includes submission of final thesis text and sign-off from doctoral committee members. Proof of completion is required.
You may request verification via the National Student Clearinghouse using the Student Self-Service Verification: https://verify.studentclearinghouse.org/registration/landing-page. If your school participates in the Clearinghouse the name will appear when typed in, and the verification may be ordered (there may be a fee for this service). If your school does not appear on the list then you should contact your school's registrar's office for further assistance. If your school is closed or shut down, please contact the Department of Education within the state the school was located in. They will be able to tell you what open school has their records. If you have further questions click here and select Verification Services Help at the National Student Clearinghouse, or contact the USmax SDF team at usaid-sdf-info@usmax.com.
Yes. Applicants must hold U.S. citizenship (permanent residency and green card status do not qualify). The SDF program welcomes applicants with dual citizenship. It is important to understand that dual citizenship may lead to security clearance delays. Security clearance delays may affect the ability to start or keep a fellowship placement.
To begin and remain in the fellowship program, all finalists who are offered and accept a fellowship position must be able to obtain and maintain either a Public Trust background investigation approval (also known as a Facility Access), or a Security Clearance, which is dependent on the level designated for their USAID fellowship host office. Failure to meet the designated investigation approval requirement will result in disqualification from the SDF program.
Obtaining the designated investigation approval can take several months at minimum. The USmax Facility Security Officer (FSO) will provide guidance on the Public Trust and Security Clearance processes. However, the FSO is not involved in the actual investigation, processing or approval as that is a function of the U.S. government. Fellows are responsible for submitting complete, accurate information into the designated online forms within the allocated time frame, and for following up with appropriate parties to ensure that their investigation is progressing smoothly.
Fellowships will begin on October 1, 2024, only after securing either a designated Public Trust/Facility Clearance, or an interim Security Clearance by September 15, 2024. Fellows may not defer if a significant investigation delay is encountered.
For information about the Public Trust investigation see: https://www.usajobs.gov/help/faq/job-announcement/security-clearances/
For information about the security clearance process see: https://www.dcsa.mil/Personnel-Security/Background-Investigations-for-Applicants/Investigations-Clearance-Process/.
Yes. Scientists and engineers who are federal, state, or local government employees and meet all the eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. However, the fellowship may not be pursued as a detail from an existing position. If a government employee applies, it should be with the understanding that accepting a Science for Development Fellowship entails leaving the current government position and its related government benefits to be hired as an Institutional Support Contractor.
Yes. Scientists and engineers in federal Title 42 positions who meet all the eligibility criteria are welcome to apply. However, the fellowship may not be pursued as a detail from an existing Title 42 position. If an employee under Title 42 status applies, it should be with the understanding that accepting a Science for Development Fellowship entails leaving the Title 42 position and its related benefits to be hired as an Institutional Support Contractor.
Yes. Scientists and engineers who have participated in other fellowships at USAID who meet all the eligibility criteria for SDF are welcome to apply.
However, they must make a clear and compelling case for why another two-years as a fellow under SDF is necessary to achieve career goals after already receiving a fellowship.
A complete application for a USAID Science for Development Fellowship includes the following components and steps. These are detailed in the application. Applications that do not include all components below will be designated as ineligible.
- Registration with Contact Information
- Eligibility Confirmations
- Applicant Profile Details
- Education History and Qualifying Degree (applicant must request degree verification documentation from university and upload to application by the deadline)
- Experience, Employment, and Professional Record (submission of maximum 5-page Curriculum Vitae)
- Brief Bio (250-word limit)
- Personal Statement (800-word limit)
- Additional Skills/Languages Information
- Recommendations (three letters must be submitted directly by the references via the online SDF application portal)
- Demographic Data (optional)
- Verifications of Commitment and Availability, Ethics Statements and Guidelines and Conflict of Interest Acknowledgement, Understanding of Fellowship Employment Status, Application Accuracy
- Final Review
- Submit
Before applying, it’s important to be aware of, fully understand, and be prepared to accept the requirements and obligations of being a Science for Development Fellow. Individuals interested in applying should carefully review the SDF online application site for details regarding program elements, eligibility, application components and advice, selection process and scoring, and mandatory U.S. citizenship, selective service registration, and security clearance requirements. This information is provided to help interested individuals determine whether the fellowship is a good fit (now or in the future)
To help keep your application on track for completion by the deadline, contact your references right away, inform them that you are applying for a fellowship and what you hope to gain and contribute, and confirm the best email address to contact them. Please inform your references to check their junk mail, quarantine folder or spam filter for an email from noreply@usaid-sdf.usmax.com with the instructions to submit the letter of recommendation. The email message from the online application system does not always go through directly to a reference’s inbox.
Also, as soon as possible pursue documentation that confirms you received a qualifying STEMM degree. The verification document must be uploaded as part of your application. You may request verification via the National Student Clearinghouse using the Student Self-Service Verification: https://verify.studentclearinghouse.org/registration/landing-page If your school participates in the Clearinghouse the name will appear when typed in, and the verification may be ordered (there may be a fee for this service). If your school does not appear on the list then you should contact your school's registrar's office for further assistance. If your school is closed or shut down, please contact the Department of Education within the state the school was located in. They will be able to tell you what open school has their records. If you have further questions click here and select Verification Services Help at the National Student Clearinghouse.
For additional details and advice on presenting a competitive application, please attend an online SDF application information session or view a posted recording.
Yes, there is no limit on the number of times an individual may apply for an SDF Fellowship. Often candidates are more competitive in a second or third application, as they have accumulated more experience to contribute. The online process makes this easy, as applications can be re-activated from prior submissions and simply updated as needed.
Selection
The selection process involves the following steps:
- Initial Review: All applications submitted by the deadline are reviewed by SDF staff to confirm eligibility.
- Scoring: All eligible applications are read and scored by independent Selection Panels (each application will be reviewed and scored by a minimum of three panelists using designated selection criteria and scoring structure).
- Z-score Ranking: A Z-score formula is applied following application scoring to rank order candidates.
- Semi-finalist Designation: The 60 top-scoring applicants are designated as semi-finalists, and each is invited to participate in a 30-minute online interview with a Selection Panel (generally eight panelists). Semi-finalists are informed of the interview structure and provided guidance and tips for successful online interviews.
- Selection Interview: To determine the pool of finalists to move forward to the placement process, panelists first interview, then score again, and rank semi-finalists using the designated selection criteria and scoring structure.
- Finalist Notification: Finalists are notified and provided dates, information, and guidance on participation in the placement interview process, including a list of USAID offices participating to host fellows.
All selection and placement interviews will be virtual.
Finalists will be notified by March 6, 2025.
Placement
In the 2025-2027 SDF class starting October 2025, 20 fellowship slots are anticipated.
No. Finalists must participate in the placement interview process and then receive an invitation from the SDF program staff based on a USAID office indicating that it wishes to host the finalist. Some finalists may not be chosen by a USAID host office for a placement. Finalists who are offered a placement must sign an agreement form indicating acceptance of all terms of the fellowship offer, including that it is contingent upon receiving the designated level of security clearance for the USAID host office in an acceptable timeframe.
Following selection interviews, the Panels designate up to 30 finalists to move forward to participate in Fellowship Placement Interview Week. PLEASE NOTE: Finalists must commit to participate in the designated Placement Interview Week indicated on the SDF Application site; no interviews will be conducted outside of the scheduled five-day period. The overall placement process entails the following steps:
- Placement Interview Scheduling: Finalists’ application materials are provided for review to USAID offices interested in hosting an SDF Fellow via a secure online platform. USAID host offices determine which finalists appear to be a good fit to mission and projects and schedule 30-minute interviews via an online placement scheduling platform.
- Interview Preparation: Finalists will be provided with fellowship position descriptions for the host offices that have requested to interview them. SDF program staff will conduct an online placement interview webinar for finalists to provide details on the overall placement process and guidance for success during Fellowship Placement Interview Week. Finalists should also conduct their own research on the host office(s) they will interview with to be well informed about mission and activities in advance of the placement interview(s).
- Finalist Preferences: Following placement interview week, finalists submit to SDF program staff a rank ordered list by preference of any USAID host office where they interviewed and would be willing to accept fellowship placement.
- Host Office Preferences: Following placement interviews, USAID offices submit to SDF program staff a rank ordered list of all interviewed finalists to whom the office would be willing to extend a placement offer.
- Placement Matching: SDF staff conduct a matching process striving to achieve matches of mutual, highest ranked interest between host offices and finalists. Finalists are asked to be open-minded about the offers they receive from host offices and to give them thorough consideration.
- Fellowship Offer Notification: SDF staff notify finalists (via email or phone call) of all offers that have been extended to them and discuss options. PLEASE NOTE: Designation as a finalist does not guarantee a placement and fellowship offer.
- Fellowship Offer Acceptance: Fellowship agreement forms are sent to finalists who agree to one of the USAID hosting offers that has been extended. Once a fellowship agreement form is signed and submitted, then a finalist transitions to the status of fellow, with the understanding that the placement is contingent upon receipt of a security clearance by September 15 to enter the SDF program on October 1.
- Employment Confirmation: Following submission of a signed fellowship agreement, fellows will be processed as employees of USmax Corporation, the prime contractor managing the SDF program for USAID, or as employees of Social Solutions International, the USmax subcontractor for the USAID SDF program. The employment start date will be October 1, 2025.
- Background Investigation/Security Clearance: Confirmed fellows processed as USmax and/or SSI employees attend a mandatory background investigation/security clearance briefing session and then complete the designated background investigation or security clearance forms within five days to ensure that processing may begin ASAP. NOTE: Fellowships may begin on October 1 only after receiving the required Public Trust, Facility Clearance, or interim Security Clearance by September 15.
All selection and placement interviews will be virtual.
Finalists will be provided fellowship position descriptions for the host offices that have requested to interview them. SDF program staff will conduct an online placement interview webinar for finalists to provide details on the overall placement process and guidance for success during Fellowship Placement Interview Week. Finalists should also conduct their own research on the host office(s) they will interview with to be well informed about mission and activities in advance of the placement interview(s).
Fellowship placement offers will begin being on April 3.
Participation in the SDF Fellowship entails a full-time commitment to engage in assignments at USAID. Therefore, fellows may need to complete or transfer work on existing grants, research papers, and other projects before the fellowship starts. Per federal ethics guidelines, fellows may not serve as a Principal Investigator or in any other role on a federally funded grant while also serving as a fellow, as it would be a duplication of federal support. In addition, while serving as a fellow, it is not permitted to apply for federal grants, as this would represent a financial conflict of interest due to the federal funding of the Science for Development Fellowships. Fellows involved in research collaborations or any appointments, with or without government support or remuneration, must receive approval from the USmax SDF program and the USAID host office to continue that involvement. If the activity meets USmax and USAID guidelines, then ongoing participation will be acceptable with scheduling outside of fellowship work hours. If the activity is not approved, then the fellow must take a hiatus from such involvement for the duration of the fellowship term.
The SDF program team focuses on helping fellows to prepare for success! The most critical action following acceptance of a USAID Science for Development Fellowship is to attend the scheduled background investigation/security clearance briefing and then complete the designated background investigation or security clearance forms and the required fingerprinting process.
Fellows participate in a multi-day, mandatory on-site orientation at the beginning of October, before reporting to their USAID host offices. Fellows also must complete the two-day USAID New Entrant Orientation (NEO) in October, before the host office assignment begins.
Prior to orientation, the SDF program team will provide a variety of resources over the summer to help fellows get ready to launch their fellowship. An online meet-and-greet session will be arranged to facilitate connections among fellows before beginning orientation, and an online directory for each class of fellows will be created to foster networking from the start.