Deadline: August 28, 2025
Are you passionate about shaping public policy in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and emerging technologies? The Horizon Fellowship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for subject-matter experts and aspiring policy leaders to gain hands-on experience in Washington, D.C. Applications are now open until August 28, 2025.
This prestigious programme provides the chance to work with federal agencies, congressional offices, or top think tanks on issues at the intersection of science, technology, and governance.
What is the Horizon Fellowship 2026?
The Horizon Fellowship 2026 is a competitive, fully funded public service fellowship administered by the Horizon Institute for Public Service. It places fellows in influential U.S. policy environments where they work directly on critical challenges in fields like:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Biotechnology
- Biosecurity
- Advanced computing
- Emerging technologies and innovation policy
Fellows are matched to host offices within federal agencies, congressional committees, and think tanks based on expertise and policy interests.
Fellowship Structure and Benefits
Programme Duration
- Full Fellows: 12-month placement beginning Summer 2026
- Junior Fellows: 6-month term (for recent graduates), also beginning Summer 2026
- All fellows begin with remote policy and communications training from January to March 2026
Financial Support
- Full Fellows: $113,000 annual salary
- Junior Fellows: $75,000 annual salary
- Healthcare: Up to $15,000 in healthcare support
- Professional Development: $3,000 stipend
- Relocation Support: Up to $3,000
This makes the Horizon Fellowship 2026 not only a prestigious programme but also one of the most financially accessible fellowships in the field of public service tech policy.
Who Should Apply?
Eligibility Criteria
You do not need a degree in public policy. The fellowship seeks:
- Individuals with demonstrated expertise in AI, biotech, data science, or related fields.
- Candidates with professional experience, academic research, internships, or self-driven projects in emerging technology.
- Final-year students (Class of Spring 2026) are eligible to apply for the Junior Fellow track.
🇺🇸 Work Authorisation Requirements
Applicants must be authorised to work in the United States. Permanent residents are eligible, and some roles are available for F-1 OPT holders. The programme does not sponsor visas.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm ET on August 28, 2025. The selection process includes:
- Initial Submission: CV/résumé and short-form essay responses (max 200 words each)
- Shortlist Stage: Paid work test evaluating your practical policy communication skills
- Final Interviews: Virtual interviews for selected candidates
- Offers Made: Final offers go out by late November 2025
Why Apply for the Horizon Fellowship 2026?
- Nearly 100% placement success rate into host organisations
- Over 90% of fellows continue into public policy, government, or advocacy roles post-fellowship
- Deep policy exposure and access to the U.S. policymaking ecosystem
- Encourages diverse backgrounds: lawyers, engineers, clinicians, historians, and others welcome
Whether you are early in your career or a seasoned expert looking to pivot into public service, the Horizon Fellowship 2026 provides the training, support, and network to make it happen.
Important Dates at a Glance
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | August 28, 2025 |
| Virtual Training Begins | January 2026 |
| Placement Start | Summer 2026 |
| Junior Fellowship Term | 6 months |
| Full Fellowship Term | 12 months |
| Final Offer Notification | By late November 2025 |
Apply Now
🔗 Click here to apply for the Horizon Fellowship 2026
📖 Click here to read more about the Horizon Fellowship programme
Need Help Preparing Your Application?
Crafting a compelling application takes strategy and clarity. For support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
If you’re looking to drive real impact in science and tech policy while growing your career in public service, the Horizon Fellowship 2026 is your launchpad.
