Center for Excellence in Government Cybersecurity Risk Management and Resilience

CRC Student Fellows Program

Apply to be a CRC student fellow

Are you a passionate student looking to gain hands-on experience in government cybersecurity risk management and IT modernization?  

The CRC Student Fellows Program offers an exciting opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to contribute to cutting-edge research, engage with government agencies, and develop expertise in technology innovation, cybersecurity resilience and IT modernization. 

About the Program 

George Mason University’s Center of Excellence in Government Cybersecurity Risk Management and Resilience (CRC) was founded in November 2023 to support federal, state, and local government cybersecurity and IT modernization efforts. CRC translates state-of-the-art research into practice, provides executive education, convenes workshops and conferences, disseminates best practices, and fosters cybersecurity and IT modernization organizational capacity within government agencies. 

As a CRC Student Fellow, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • Conduct research on cybersecurity risk management, resilience, and IT modernization. 
  • Develop policy insights and contribute to CRC’s efforts in supporting government agencies. 
  • Engage with experts in cybersecurity, risk management, and IT modernization through events and workshops. 
  • Assist in translating research into practice by supporting executive education and outreach initiatives. 

This is an unpaid fellowship, however, the experience and skills you gained will enhance your professional qualifications and resume.  

Eligibility 

As a transdisciplinary center, we welcome students of all disciplinary backgrounds. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

  • Be a full-time or part-time student at George Mason University. 
  • Have a strong interest in government cybersecurity, IT modernization, risk management and resilience. 
  • Be able to commit to at least two semesters of participation, dedicating approximately 2-5 hours per week on average.
  • Demonstrate strong writing, research, and analytical skills. 
Expectations 

All CRC Student Fellows are expected to: 

  • Write approximately three short articles per semester on cybersecurity risk management, resilience, and IT modernization. 
  • Conduct independent research and contribute to CRC’s government outreach initiatives. 
  • Attend key CRC meetings and events (approximately 4-5 per semester). 
Application Process 

To apply for the CRC Student Fellows Program, please submit the following: 

  1. Completed Application Form (Include Name, Email, Student Status, Expected Graduation, Major/Focus Area).
  2. Resume/CV highlighting relevant experience.
  3. Writing Sample (Preferably related to cybersecurity, risk management, or IT modernization).
  4. Personal Statement (500 words or less) describing your academic and professional goals and how a CRC fellowship would support those goals.
  5. Project Selection – Indicate the projects you are interested in contributing to, such as: 
    • Researching cybersecurity risk management and resilience best practices and contributing to research paper writing. 
    • Assisting with proposals for funding CRC projects. 
    • Assisting with executive education programs, conferences, and workshops. 
    • Supporting CRC’s policy and outreach efforts with federal, state, and local governments.
    • Creating content for CRC’s blog, websites and social media. 

 Please submit applications and questions to [email protected].