Application Guide

How to Apply for Fellowship Associate (US-based)

at Activate Global

🏢 About Activate Global

Activate Global uniquely empowers scientists to commercialize breakthrough research specifically focused on climate change solutions, bridging the gap between academic innovation and real-world impact. Working here means contributing directly to scaling technologies that address urgent environmental challenges while building a supportive community of entrepreneurial scientists.

About This Role

As a Fellowship Associate, you'll be the operational backbone for the Activate Anywhere Community, coordinating virtual/in-person programming, managing fellow data, and supporting cross-functional projects like fellow selection. This role is impactful because you'll directly enable climate-focused entrepreneurs to succeed through community building and streamlined operations.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start by updating fellowship records and coordinating with fellows for upcoming virtual programming, then shift to scheduling quarterly trip logistics while managing calendar conflicts. You'll likely analyze community engagement data to improve processes, then prepare materials for funder reporting before ending with planning a creative virtual social event to connect scientists across time zones.

🎯 Who Activate Global Is Looking For

  • An organizational expert who can juggle bi-weekly virtual programming, quarterly trips, and calendar management while maintaining meticulous fellowship records
  • A proactive problem-solver comfortable with spreadsheets and data systems who identifies process improvements in fellow onboarding and data management
  • A community builder who creatively connects scientists through events and programming in a remote environment
  • Someone responsive and adaptable in digital workspaces who can support multiple Activate communities while managing stakeholder communications

📝 Tips for Applying to Activate Global

1

Highlight specific experience coordinating hybrid (virtual and in-person) events or communities, especially in STEM/innovation sectors

2

Quantify your organizational skills with examples of managing multiple calendars, deadlines, or data systems simultaneously

3

Demonstrate knowledge of Activate's fellowship model by mentioning specific programs or fellows you've researched

4

Show how you've built community remotely - describe specific tools or creative approaches you've used

5

Connect your administrative experience directly to supporting entrepreneurial or scientific communities

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your experience managing complex calendars and data systems for distributed teams or communities', 'Specific examples of building engagement in virtual/hybrid environments, particularly with technical or scientific audiences', "How you've identified and implemented process improvements in administrative or operational workflows", "Your passion for climate tech commercialization and why Activate's scientist-entrepreneur model resonates with you"]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Activate's current fellows and their climate tech projects (available on their website)
  • The structure of Activate Anywhere versus other Activate communities
  • Activate's funders and partners to understand reporting requirements
  • Recent Activate events or programming to discuss specific community-building approaches

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe how you would coordinate a quarterly in-person trip for fellows while maintaining virtual programming
2 How would you improve the fellow onboarding process based on your experience with data management systems?
3 Share a creative approach you've used to build community in a remote environment
4 How do you prioritize when managing the Boston community calendar, Managing Director's calendar, and fellowship deadlines simultaneously?
5 What metrics would you track to demonstrate the success of Activate Anywhere Community programming to funders?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic administrative experience without connection to community building or STEM environments
  • Focusing only on in-person event coordination without addressing virtual community management
  • Failing to demonstrate understanding of Activate's specific mission to commercialize scientist-led climate research

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Activate Global!