WTSA Fellowship Program

Empowering the Future of Sensory Science, Wellness, and Human Experience Design

Program Overview

The World Taste & Smell Association (WTSA) Fellowship Program is a structured educational and service initiative that provides emerging professionals, graduate students, and cross-disciplinary innovators with the opportunity to contribute to impactful research, public health education, and sensory innovation. Fellows will support WTSA’s mission while gaining hands-on experience and mentorship in sensory science, neurodivergence, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration.

Legal & Compliance Foundations
1. 501(c)(3) Guidelines

  • Fellows must serve a charitable, educational, or scientific purpose.

  • All activities must support WTSA’s mission and not benefit private individuals or businesses.

  • Our Fellows are not employees. Opportunities are educational/service learning experiences with defined goals and limited terms.

2. NYS Labor Law & Federal Compliance

Fellowship Tracks

  1. Research & Data Science

    • Work on public health studies (e.g. anosmia impact, surveys).

    • Support data analysis, ethics, and human subject protections (under IRB review).

  2. Public Engagement & Education

    • Develop multimedia content, workshops, and digital campaigns (e.g. #DeliciousForAll).

    • Support curriculum design and public education efforts.

  3. Sensory Experience & Wellness Innovation

    • Explore olfaction-based mindfulness, flavor training, and experiential learning.

    • Contribute to cross-modal sensory rehabilitation programs and product pilots.

  4. Operations & Nonprofit Management

    • Assist in grant writing, sponsorships, donor relations, and program administration.

Fellowship Duration & Commitment

  • Term: 3–6 months, renewable up to 12 months.

  • Hours: Part-time (10–20 hrs/week) or Full-time options.

  • Location: Remote/hybrid with optional residencies in the Hudson Valley or NYC.

Eligibility

  • Open to undergraduate seniors, graduate students, post-grads, and career-changers.

  • International candidates must have valid work/educational visas for U.S.-based roles.

Selection Criteria

  • Demonstrated interest in sensory science, wellness, design, or public health.

  • Portfolio or research experience (for specialized tracks).

  • Commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and community impact.

Benefits for Fellows

  • Monthly stipend or academic credit (for university partnerships).

  • Access to WTSA advisory network, research seminars, and retreats.

  • Publication opportunities in WTSA journals, Medium, and academic outlets.

  • Fellowship certificate and LinkedIn endorsement.

  • Eligibility to lead workshops, contribute to grant-funded studies, or apply for future full-time roles.

Funding & Compensation

  • Baseline Unpaid Fellowship: For students earning credit or fulfilling service-learning.

  • Stipended Fellowship: $500–$2,000/month depending on experience and grant funding.

  • Housing/Travel Allowances: Available for select fellows working in the Hudson Valley.

All fellows must sign:

  • Fellowship Agreement

  • Confidentiality & IP Agreement

  • W-9 Form (for U.S. tax reporting)

    Please note: We are currently accepting applications from U.S. citizens only.

Compliance & Oversight

  • Program managed under WTSA’s 501(c)(3) structure with Board oversight.

  • Reports submitted to the WTSA Program Director bi-monthly.

  • Evaluation rubrics used for feedback, learning assessment, and future employment pipelines.

Application Process

  • Online application form.

  • Resume, short essay or project proposal, and one letter of recommendation.

  • Rolling admissions or bi-annual cohorts.