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Fellowship/Professional Development Program

Air Force Science & Technology Fellowship Program

The Air Force Science & Technology Fellowship Program (AF STFP) provides nationally competitive fellowship awards for postdoctoral and senior scientists. Selected individuals have the unique opportunity to engage in collaborative research alongside Air Force scientists and engineers within the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), and the U.S. Space Force (USSF). This program offers high-quality research opportunities, aiming to foster innovation and technological advancement within the Air Force through these collaborations.

Not accepting applications

Under review

Nov 2, 2025 - December

Upcoming events

Eligibility and Benefits: Fellowship and Application Process for NRC RAP and AF STFP

  • November 18, 2025
  • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (ET)
  • Webinar
  • Past

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine maintain a database of more than a thousand active research opportunities and administer postdoctoral and senior research awards at partic...

Description

The Air Force Science and Technology Fellowship Program (AF STFP), funded by the United States Air Force, provides a platform for outstanding scientists and engineers to engage in vital research and development efforts. Through a competitive selection process, the program identifies exceptionally talented individuals at various career stages, from recent graduates to experienced researchers, offering them the opportunity to conduct self-directed research at Air Force facilities.

The AF STFP aims to:

  • Enable highly promising scientists and engineers to undertake innovative research projects that advance the technological capabilities of the Air Force.
  • Strengthen the Air Force's research and development endeavors by incorporating cutting edge knowledge and expertise from various scientific and engineering disciplines.
  • Offer a unique environment for professional development, allowing fellows to collaborate with Air Force experts and work on groundbreaking technology projects.
  • Promote the exchange of ideas and knowledge between the Air Force and the broader scientific community, fostering professional growth and enhancing the fellows' career prospects in research and development sectors within and beyond the military.

By providing a platform for distinguished researchers to contribute to the Air Force's science and technology initiatives, the AF STFP plays a crucial role in maintaining the technological edge of the Air Force and fostering innovation within the defense sector.

Laboratory Facilities

Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL): AFRL is the primary scientific research and development center for the United States Air Force and Space Force. AFRL's breakthroughs underpin modern aircraft systems, focusing on transformative air and space technology to meet evolving challenges. This legacy of innovation continues as AFRL's scientists and engineers develop forward-thinking solutions and technologies, reinforcing its role as a key strategic asset for the Air Force across air, space, and cyberspace domains.

Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT): Located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, AFIT is dedicated to advanced education and research for the United States Air Force. It emphasizes disciplines in engineering, applied science, and management, aimed at enhancing the operational capability and technological readiness of the Air Force and Department of Defense. Areas of focus include systems engineering, cyber operations, and logistics management.

U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA): The Academy not only serves as an undergraduate institution for officer cadets but also conducts research to support the U.S. Air Force and Space Force. Its research efforts are concentrated on aerospace engineering, astronautics, and the development of leadership and tactical skills.

Collaborators

Sponsors

U.S. Air Force Academy

U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology

U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory

U.S. Space Force

Staff

Jennifer Griffiths

Lead

JGriffiths@nas.edu

Sierra Jackson

Lead

SiJackson@nas.edu

Erika Jauregui

EJauregui@nas.edu

Blain Bekele

BBekele@nas.edu

Melanie Suydam

MSuydam@nas.edu

Leah Probst

LProbst@nas.edu

Yemi Tesfaye

YTesfaye@nas.edu

Major units and sub-units

Organizational Initiatives

Lead

Office of Fellowships

Lead

Past events

Eligibility and Benefits: Fellowship and Application Process for NRC RAP and AF STFP

  • November 18, 2025
  • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (ET)
  • Webinar
  • Past

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine maintain a database of more than a thousand active research opportunities and administer postdoctoral and senior research awards at partic...

Introduction: Fellowship and Application Process for NRC RAP and AF STFP

  • September 30, 2025
  • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (ET)
  • Webinar
  • Past

Intro to the Fellowship & Application Process Webinar The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine maintain a database of more than a thousand active research opportunities and admin...

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