Chang Pivoting Fellowship Grant

The Chang Pivoting Fellowship, funded by the Optica Foundation, offers $50,000 in unrestricted funding to early-career optical scientists and engineers. This fellowship supports those seeking to transition into non-traditional career paths, such as public policy and journalism, leveraging their scientific expertise for societal benefit.

Optica Foundation
We cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators as they navigate advanced degree programs and become active members of research, engineering and business worldwide. The foundation also works to secure the endowments for Optica’s awards and honors programs. The foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
The Milton and Rosalind Chang Pivoting Fellowship provides unrestricted funding to talented, early-career optical scientists and engineers who believe their expertise can improve society outside of the lab. We encourage those with vision and exceptional talent to apply and pursue a newfound passion.
The fellowship is an investment in a person’s commitment to advancing science through non traditional career paths such as public policy, government, and journalism.
Program Prize
USD 50,000 and travel expenses to be recognized at Frontiers in Optics (FiO)

Eligibility

Must be an Optica Member and an early career professional (1 – 5 years post highest degree).Program requirements recognize and exclude career breaks from career timelines (e.g. eldercare, maternity or paternity leave).Can demonstrate intent to leverage your scientific expertise to advance optical science through non-traditional career paths.
You must be a member of this organization to apply for this award - become a member.