Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program

About this scholarship

The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program funds independent research or study that uses Smithsonian collections, facilities, research interests, and staff expertise. The 2027 competition includes ten-week graduate student awards of $10,000; predoctoral awards at a $45,000 annual rate; and postdoctoral or senior awards at a $60,000 annual rate. Postdoctoral and senior researchers in earth and planetary sciences may receive $65,000 annually. Eligible predoctoral, postdoctoral, and senior fellows may also request up to $5,000 per year for research expenses, with separate relocation support possible. Graduate applicants must have completed at least one semester of graduate study. Predoctoral applicants must have advanced to doctoral candidacy and completed all requirements except the dissertation by the fellowship start. Postdoctoral candidates generally must be less than five years beyond the Ph.D.; senior applicants normally have held the degree for at least five years. Applicants of any nationality may propose work in a discipline pursued at the Smithsonian, identify appropriate staff advisors, and explain why Smithsonian resources are essential to the project. The application requires a detailed proposal, abstract, schedule, budget or justification where applicable, academic records, curriculum vitae, and references. Applications for the 2027 cycle are submitted through the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System, selecting the program under the Office of Academic Appointments and Internships, by October 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Eligibility

• Propose independent research or study in a discipline pursued at the Smithsonian Institution
• Identify relevant Smithsonian collections, facilities, research interests, and staff advisors
• Have completed at least one graduate-school semester for the ten-week graduate category
• Have advanced to doctoral candidacy and completed all requirements except the dissertation for predoctoral consideration
• Be less than five years beyond the Ph.D. for standard postdoctoral consideration, subject to the published leave exception
• Have held the Ph.D. or equivalent for at least five years for senior-fellowship consideration
• Submit the required proposal, abstract, schedule, academic records, curriculum vitae, and references
• File the 2027 application through SOLAA by October 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time