Description

Call for Applications: New Voices in Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Program

The New Voices in Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has launched the application for the 2026-2028 New Voices Cohort! We are seeking U.S.-based, mid-career emerging leaders in all disciplines of the sciences, engineering, and medicine with an established track record of professional excellence and demonstrated commitment to service beyond their immediate discipline and institution. Individuals interested in science communication, international scientific collaboration, and science policy are encouraged to apply.

Key Dates

Application Deadline: September 3, 2025, 11:59pm EDT

Finalist Interviews: November 2025
Applicants Notified: Anticipated early December 2025
In-person Orientation Dates for Selected Members: January 27-29, 2026 (attendance required for selected applicants)

Please visit our website for details, or reach out to [email protected] with any questions.

Watch the New Voices Program video

Overview

Launched by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the New Voices program brings together exceptional mid-career leaders based in the United States to address some of the most pressing national and global challenges.

The program aims to expand the perspectives engaged in the National Academies’ advisory work while fostering a cross-disciplinary network of emerging leaders committed to service, collaboration, and public engagement.

Over a two-year term, New Voices members have the opportunity to:

•        Join a prestigious network of science, engineering, and medical leaders.
•        Explore interdisciplinary approaches to addressing critical global issues.
•        Learn how the National Academies impact science policy at the federal level.
•        Represent New Voices at major international science and policy forums, along with other young leaders and senior experts.
•        Bring back insights and experiences to drive impact in their home institutions and communities.

Eligibility

We are seeking U.S.-based emerging leaders in all disciplines of the sciences, engineering, and medicine with an established track record of professional excellence and demonstrated commitment to service beyond their immediate discipline and institution. Individuals who have demonstrated interest in science communication, international collaboration, and science policy are encouraged to apply.

The New Voices program is open to applicants who meet the following criteria:

•        Hold a terminal degree* (e.g., Ph.D., M.D., etc.) in any discipline within the sciences, engineering, or medicine – including social sciences.
•        Are in the mid-career phase and have obtained their terminal degree* or completed medical doctor training within the last fifteen (15) years.  Note: Applicants who exceed this limit due to caregiving leave or military service are encouraged to apply.
•        Are based in the United States and do not require visa sponsorship from the National Academies in order to remain in the U.S. during the term of service.
•        Currently hold a primary professional affiliation with a U.S. institution, including industry, academia, government, non-profit, and other sectors.

*A terminal degree is the highest level of education or academic credential that can be achieved in a particular field or discipline. In certain fields where a terminal degree is not standard practice, a master’s degree (e.g., MS in Engineering or an MPH) may be considered sufficient if accompanied by 8-10 years of post-graduate professional experience demonstrating advanced expertise and leadership at a comparable career stage. Applicants who believe they qualify under this exception should consult our FAQs below for further guidance and illustrative examples.

How to Apply

To submit an initial application for the New Voices program, please fill out our online application form by following these steps:

1.     Set up an account on our online application platform.

2.     Review the 2026-2028 New Voices Application Preview and prepare your application materials, including:

a.     Short Bio (maximum 250 words)

b.     Short CV (maximum 2 pages, PDF)

c.     Two letters of recommendation, which demonstrate how you fulfill the selection criteria outlined in the Selection Process section below. (maximum 2 pages per letter, PDF)

d.     Three long-form question answers (maximum 300 words each)

e.     A description of notable professional accomplishments, including links to two recent products (e.g., publications, recognitions, patents, programs, etc.). (maximum 1 page, PDF)

3.     Submit your application materials via our online application platform by the deadline posted above. Note: All applications must be submitted via our online form to be considered.

Please visit our website for more information. Contact us at [email protected] with any questions.