Accelerating clean energy adoption requires scholars who understand the business and policy context of clean energy. The Advanced Experience Program (AXP), created through the generous support of the Mark Torrance Foundation, enables full-time UW Ph.D. and M.S. students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to apply their knowledge to support decision makers in climate tech investing and clean energy policy.
AXP is designed to be a flexible time commitment to complement each student’s graduate training and longer-term professional development at the UW and CEI. There are two tracks that comprise AXP: (1) Tech Due Diligence and (2) Science Policy Analysis. The time commitment for each track is approximately 20 hours (not including a final writeup which is typically a two-page contribution to a larger investment or policy document). Participants receive a $1,200 honorarium after both their 20-hour time commitment and final contribution are complete.
Applications for the 2026–27 academic year are now open! Apply by August 26, 2026.
Torrance Tech Due Diligence Track
Purpose
Successfully transitioning clean energy research concepts from the laboratory to the marketplace is costly, and often involves pitching ideas to early-stage investors. Participants in the AXP Tech Due Diligence track use their STEM knowledge to advise investors and make technical contributions to a due diligence report or presentation to be used by E8, a climate tech angel investment organization based in the Pacific Northwest. These contributions help E8 evaluate companies seeking funding. Through the Tech Due Diligence track, students gain:
- Experience in broadly applying STEM knowledge as a technical consultant.
- Exposure to early-stage investor perspectives on technology viability, business plans, and risk/opportunity assessment.
Program Details
A wide array of cleantech startup companies seek E8 investments each year over E8’s mid-August through May application cycle. After an initial screening process to triage applicants, students (in consultation with E8) have the opportunity to join a diligence team to evaluate a company and its respective technology. Each student is expected to participate in relevant screening calls and E8 member meetings as part of their 20-hour time commitment, culminating in participation on a due diligence team. Students contribute content to a final report or presentation to be used by E8. There are exciting opportunities to engage in diligence of startup companies and evaluation of their markets potentially spanning silicon and solid-state battery technologies, biopolymer plastic alternatives, electrolyzer systems, and smart building energy integration. Additional opportunities may arise in agricultural microbiology and applications of artificial intelligence. The focus of the work will depend on what companies apply, with deals and companies evolving over the summer.
Program Director: Corie Cobb, Washington Research Foundation Innovation Professor of Clean Energy & Mechanical Engineering
Contact: ceiapps@uw.edu
Tech Due Diligence Analysts
2025–26
2024–25
2023–24
2022–23
2021–22
Shaun Gallagher (Advisor: David Ginger – Chemistry)
2020–21
2019–20
2018-19
Parker Sommerville (Advisor: Christine Luscombe – Chemistry)
2017-18
Torrance Science Policy Analysis Track
Purpose
- Experience translating technical research for audiences with varied backgrounds
- Insight into real-world policy processes and the role scientists and engineers can play in advising decision makers
Program Details
WSAS acts as a neutral convener and honest broker, mobilizing experts across Washington and beyond to bring the best available information to policymakers and practitioners. WSAS provides multidisciplinary assessments, expert briefings, and interactive programs to support evidence-informed decision making and collaborative action. As part of their 20-hour time commitment, Science Policy Analysts support these activities by participating in relevant meetings, synthesizing information, and contributing to written products in collaboration with WSAS staff. In past years, analysts have supported an Academy study on the value of solar energy and storage and symposiums on sustainable aviation and decarbonization.
Program Director: Dan Schwartz, UW Clean Energy Institute director
Contact: ceiapps@uw.edu
Science Policy Analysts
2025–26
2024–25
2023–24
2022–23
2021–22
2020–21
Application Details
Both programs are open to full-time UW Ph.D. and M.S. students in STEM fields who are enrolled for the full academic year. Interested UW graduate students must submit their CV and a 1-page cover letter. The CV should include the applicant’s anticipated graduation date.
The most competitive candidates will convey the following in their application: (1) why they are interested in the professional development this program offers, (2) how participation in this program will be of personal benefit, (3) their research record, work experience and skills, and (4) their potential to extend their current knowledge and skills to new and diverse sets of problems.
Apply for the 2026–27 Advanced Experience Program by August 26, 2026.
*Advisors need to fill out a (very) brief form indicating their support for their student’s application (recommendation letters are not required).
AXP applications for the upcoming academic year open in the summer. The deadline for applications and advisor approval forms typically falls in mid-August. Decision letters are typically sent in late August.
Questions? Contact ceiapps@uw.edu.
Funding
Thank you to the Mark Torrance Foundation for creating this unique professional development opportunity for clean energy students.
