The Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues is an organization of social scientists that has historically brought research to bear on a wide array of societal problems.
The SPSSI James Marshall Public Policy Fellowship trains early career scientists to 1) contribute to the effective use of scientific knowledge about social issues in the formation of public policy at the federal level; 2) educate the scientific community about how research can contribute to the development of public policy; and 3) establish a more effective liaison between social scientists and various policymaking mechanisms.
The Marshall Fellow should expect to use psychological research to inform the public policymaking process while working full-time in a congressional office. The fellow participates in a range of activities involving the application of psychological research to analyze specific social policies and develop science-informed policy. The policy focus of the work varies from year to year depending on the fellow’s congressional placement. Past fellows have carried out placements in both the House and Senate and have engaged in a diverse range of policymaking activities (e.g., drafting legislation, writing speeches and talking points, planning hearings, meeting with constituents and outside groups, conducting background research).
Eligibility
The Marshall Fellowship is open to postdoctoral scientists from any discipline relevant to the psychological study of social issues. Candidates must be a member of SPSSI and must hold a PhD or PsyD by the start of the fellowship. (For example, if you are applying for the 2025-2026 fellowship and are currently a graduate student, your degree must be awarded by August 31, 2025.)
