2026-27 Defense Technology Fellowship

Description

The Clements Center Defense Tech Fellows Program is committed to teaching, mentorship, and research with UT-Austin’s youngest aspiring engineers and scientists.

Fellows will convene monthly throughout the academic year to participate in discussion groups, workshops, and meet with distinguished guests and visiting speakers. Each year will also include at least one field tour of a nearby tech lab or government/military facility. 

Qualifications

Must be a current undergraduate student at the University of Texas at Austin with a minimum 3.0 GPA. 

Must be pursuing a STEM degree. 

Application Instructions

To apply for the Defense Tech Fellow Program, please complete the application form and submit the following documents:

1. 1-page Resume

   • Highlight your education, work experience, and relevant accomplishments.
   • Please note if you have attended previous Clements Center events. 

2. 1-page Essay

   • Please respond to the following Prompt(s):

     • • Describe an experience, interest, or influence that shaped your desire to explore defense technology and its role in national security. This may include an academic project, internship, personal experience, course, or event that sparked your interest. Explain how this experience shaped your understanding of how technology supports - or complicates - national security policy and strategy. Finally, discuss what you hope to gain from participating in the DefTech Fellows Program and how it fits into your long-term goals as a STEM professional.
     • Guidelines:
       • Length: 350-500 words
       • Audience: Fellowship selection committee
       • Evaluation criteria: Thoughtfulness, self-awareness, connection between technology and national security, and clarity
3. Contact Information for 2-3 UT Proffessors

• • Provide the names, positions, and contact details of 2-3 University of Texas faculty members who can speak to your qualifications.
  • Note: Letters of recommendation are NOT required, but may be taken into consideration.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.