Sponsored by the Chesapeake Bay Commission and the Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia Sea Grant programs
Application Deadline: March 13, 2026
The Chesapeake Bay Commission seeks a graduate-level fellow for a one-year placement in its Annapolis, MD office. The fellow will work under the guidance of the Commission’s Executive Director and Administrative Officer, with opportunities to support the Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania Directors. This position offers the opportunity to be at the intersection of science and policy, at the state, regional, and federal levels, on issues of concern to the Commission’s member jurisdictions when it comes to the health of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed.
The Chesapeake Bay Commission is a tri-state, bi-partisan body that works predominantly with the legislatures of Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland to develop sound policies and laws related to the Chesapeake Bay. The Commission provides information and advice on Chesapeake Bay issues to the members of these three legislatures and works interactively with executive branch leaders and agencies of all three states. As a signatory to the Chesapeake Bay Agreement, the Commission is fully involved in the work of the Chesapeake Bay Program partnership and advises Congress on the needs of the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort.
The fellow will support the Commission in surveying the latest scientific findings impacting the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort, conducting state and federal-level policy research, and planning for Commission meetings. The fellow will support the Executive Director and State Directors in their regional, Chesapeake Bay Program activities, including preparing for and attending Principal’s Staff Committee, Management Board, and Goal Implementation Team meetings. The fellow will support the Executive Director on federal policy initiatives, which may include preparing materials for and meeting with members of the Chesapeake Congressional Delegation to discuss federal appropriations bills and other relevant legislation. The fellow will also work with the Executive Director to select, complete, and present a capstone project that aligns with the priorities of the Commission and the skills and research interests of the fellow. Finally, the fellow will support the Commission’s state directors, including Virginia Director, in developing and analyzing state policy proposals in advance of and during the General Assembly sessions.
Eligibility:
Current students completing a graduate, professional degree or Ph.D. program, or recent graduate (within 12 months of start date) of such program.
Length: 12-month fellowship assignment
Start Date: July 1, 2026
Salary: $66,000
