Bradley W. (Brad) Fenwick, DVM, Ph.D., was a passionate advocate for science and for cultivating the public’s appreciation of its power to improve society. As an award-winning scientist, veterinarian and leader in science policy, Fenwick championed cross-disciplinary work, including microbial genomics, the role of microbes in agriculture, veterinary science and biodefense, to name a few. After his death in July 2021, his family and ASM decided to honor his memory by creating the Brad Fenwick Fellowship for the Advancement of Civic Science, designed to recognize and support early career scientists with an interest and aptitude for bridging the worlds of science and the broader society through policy and advocacy.

ASM has awarded the 2025 Brad Fenwick Fellowship. Applications for 2026 will close Sunday, May 10, 2026. The fellowship will be awarded in June 2026.


For questions or more information, please contact the Advocacy team.

Qualifications of Nominees: 

The 2026 Brad Fenwick Fellowship will recognize an early career scientist with a successful record of connecting civic engagement and science. In addition to the financial award, fellows will work with ASM Advocacy staff to develop a deeper understanding of civic engagement and public policy.  
 
Applicants must be graduate students or within 5 years of receiving an advanced degree. Please submit a 250-500 word description of the applicant’s accomplishments in connecting civics and science to be considered for the award. The application must also include a letter of recommendation from someone who knows the applicant in a supervisory capacity and can speak to that person's ability to engage in advocacy related activities. At least 1 letter is required on the application, but 2 are encouraged.

At this time, we are only considering applicants based in the U.S. In future years, we hope to expand the fellowship to include international applicants.