RWJF Health Policy Fellows Program: Fully Immersive Leadership Fellowship for Mid-Career Professionals to Shape U.S. Health Policy
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellows Program is a prestigious nonpartisan leadership fellowship designed for mid-career professionals to gain firsthand federal policymaking experience in Washington, DC.
Overview
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Health Policy Fellows Program offers a highly respected, immersive leadership opportunity for accomplished mid-career professionals. Administered in collaboration with the National Academy of Medicine (NAM), the fellowship places participants in Washington, DC for one full year to work directly alongside members of Congress, congressional committees, or executive branch agencies. Fellows bridge the gap between technical expertise and policymaking, contributing directly to federal legislation and health priorities.
The programme structure includes an intensive three-and-a-half-month orientation starting in September, followed by government placements beginning in January. Participants also benefit from ongoing nonpartisan seminars, leadership workshops, strategic communications training, and access to a nationwide alumni network.
Eligibility
- Professional Background: Applicants should currently work within academic institutions, non-profit organizations, government agencies, military services, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or eligible state government offices.
- Educational Requirements: Must possess a master’s or doctoral degree in a health-related discipline or an area contributing to health policy.
- Professional Expertise: Significant expertise in fields such as medicine, nursing, public health, law, economics, social sciences, social work, behavioral health, and other health-related professions.
- Citizenship: Must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents.
- Ineligible: Individuals whose primary responsibilities involve government relations or advocacy, and those related to officers or trustees of the RWJF.
Benefits
- Immersive federal government policy experience in Congress or executive agencies.
- World-class policy education and mentorship through the National Academy of Medicine.
- Advanced leadership skills, strategic communications training, and high-level networking opportunities.
- Long-term professional connections within a nationwide community of distinguished health leaders.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible mid-career professionals can submit their applications through the official application portal. Be sure to review all guidelines and prepare the necessary documentation prior to applying.
Deadline
At the time of the provided information, no application deadline has been specified. Interested applicants should monitor the official fellowship webpage for application opening and closing dates.