Application Guide
How to Apply for Kendall Fellow, Science of Fair Representation
at Union of Concerned Scientists
🏢 About Union of Concerned Scientists
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is a nonprofit that combines rigorous scientific analysis with advocacy to address the world's most pressing problems. UCS is unique for its commitment to using science for the public good, with a strong focus on equity and justice. Working here means contributing to evidence-based policy solutions that protect democracy and the environment.
About This Role
As a Kendall Fellow, you will lead research on proportional representation (PR) systems, building computational models to demonstrate their benefits and feasibility. Your work will directly support local advocacy efforts, providing data and guidance to help communities adopt fairer voting systems. This role is impactful because it bridges cutting-edge social choice theory with real-world policy change.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve analyzing voting data using computational models, drafting a policy brief on the benefits of PR for a local coalition, and meeting with election administrators to discuss implementation challenges. You'll also spend time writing for a public audience, such as a blog post explaining how vote tabulation works under PR.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Union of Concerned Scientists Is Looking For
- A recent Ph.D. in political science, public policy, or sociology with a focus on electoral systems or computational social science.
- Proficient in quantitative methods such as VoteKit, elections modeling, or machine learning, with a portfolio of relevant research.
- Able to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including policymakers, election administrators, and the public.
- Committed to Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (JEDIA), with experience applying these principles in research or advocacy.
📝 Tips for Applying to Union of Concerned Scientists
Tailor your cover letter to highlight how your research on electoral systems or voting behavior directly relates to proportional representation.
Include a link to your GitHub or portfolio showcasing computational models or data analysis projects (e.g., using VoteKit or similar tools).
Mention any experience working with coalitions or community groups, as partnership is key to this role.
Demonstrate your understanding of UCS's mission by referencing specific UCS reports or campaigns on fair representation.
Avoid generic phrases; instead, use concrete examples of how you've made research accessible to non-experts.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Emphasize your technical skills in modeling voting systems and your ability to translate research into policy recommendations.', 'Show your passion for equitable representation and how your work can help marginalized communities.', 'Highlight any experience in public education or outreach, such as writing op-eds or giving talks to non-technical audiences.', 'Explain why you want to work at UCS specifically, linking your values to their science-driven, justice-oriented approach.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read UCS's recent reports on fair representation and voting rights, especially those related to local elections.
- → Look into UCS's Science for Democracy program and understand how they collaborate with grassroots coalitions.
- → Review the work of UCS fellows and scientists to understand the organization's culture and expectations.
- → Familiarize yourself with current debates on proportional representation in the U.S., including case studies from cities that have adopted it.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application that doesn't reference UCS's specific work or the role's focus on PR.
- Overemphasizing theoretical aspects without showing practical application or policy relevance.
- Neglecting to address how you will ensure equitable implementation of PR systems, especially for underrepresented groups.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Union of Concerned Scientists!