Apply for James Smithson Fellowship Program

Deadline: 15-Oct-2026

The James Smithson Fellowship Program 2027 supports early-career U.S. postdoctoral researchers in science, humanities, and the arts to conduct independent research at the Smithsonian Institution. The 2027 theme is “Regeneration,” and each fellow receives a $62,000 stipend, $5,000 research allowance, and may receive additional travel and health insurance support. What Is the James Smithson Fellowship Program? The James Smithson Fellowship Program is a postdoctoral research opportunity at the Smithsonian Institution for early-career researchers pursuing independent, interdisciplinary research. The fellowship is designed to connect academic research with broader societal and public policy questions. Professional networks and perspectives across academic fields. The programme encourages fellows to consider how their research can contribute to public understanding and inform policy. What Is the 2027 “Regeneration” Theme? The 2027 fellowship theme is “Regeneration.” The theme invites researchers to investigate how societies, environments and cultural traditions respond to change through renewal, adaptation and rebuilding. Projects may approach regeneration from scientific, cultural, historical, technological, social or interdisciplinary perspectives. Why Does the Fellowship Matter? The fellowship goes beyond conventional postdoctoral research by encouraging scholars to examine the broader significance and policy implications of their work. Applicants should therefore research Smithsonian experts carefully before finalizing their proposals. Who Is Not Eligible? Certain Smithsonian employees and contractors are excluded.

Current:

Smithsonian employees, and Smithsonian contractors are not eligible to apply while employed or under contract. Former Smithsonian employees or contractors must generally have one year of separation before applying, unless an exception is approved by the Office of Academic Appointments and Internships. How to Prepare an Application

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Check that you:

Are a U.S. citizen. Hold a relevant doctorate or terminal professional degree. Are within five years of receiving that degree. Are working as a postdoctoral researcher in science, humanities or the arts. Do not fall under the Smithsonian employment or contractor restrictions.

Step 2: Develop a “Regeneration” Research Idea

Your project should have a clear relationship to the 2027 theme. Consider how your research addresses concepts such as: A strong relationship with the proposed Smithsonian advisor. Interdisciplinary potential where appropriate. Practical research feasibility. Clear public-policy or societal relevance. The strongest projects are likely to explain not only what will be researched, but also why the Smithsonian is uniquely positioned to support the work. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Proposing a project with only a superficial connection to regeneration. Failing to identify an appropriate Smithsonian advisor. Waiting until the last minute to contact the advisor. Ignoring the policy or societal implications of the research. Proposing a project that cannot realistically be completed. Failing to demonstrate how Smithsonian collections or expertise will contribute. Applying despite not meeting the five-year postdoctoral eligibility window. Overlooking the restrictions applying to current or former Smithsonian employees and contractors.

Career-stage limit: No more than five years beyond doctorate or terminal professional degree

Stipend: $62,000

Research allowance: $5,000

Additional support: Possible travel allowance and health insurance contribution

Research advisor: Smithsonian research advisor required

Research approach: Independent and interdisciplinary encouraged

Policy focus: Broader significance and public-policy implications

Frequently Asked Questions What is the James Smithson Fellowship Program? It is a Smithsonian postdoctoral fellowship that supports independent research in science, humanities and the arts while encouraging interdisciplinary scholarship and consideration of public-policy implications. What is the 2027 fellowship theme? The 2027 theme is “Regeneration.” Research may explore renewal, restoration and adaptation in areas such as ecosystems, communities, cultures and technology. How much does the fellowship pay? Each fellow receives a $62,000 stipend and a $5,000 research allowance. Additional travel and health insurance support may also be available. Who can apply? U.S. citizen postdoctoral researchers in science, humanities or the arts who are no more than five years beyond their doctorate or terminal professional degree may apply, subject to all other programme requirements. Do applicants need a Smithsonian research advisor? Yes. Candidates must identify a Smithsonian research advisor and are encouraged to contact that advisor before applying. Can Smithsonian employees apply? Current Smithsonian employees and contractors are not eligible while employed or contracted. Former employees or contractors generally need one year of separation before applying unless an exception is approved. What makes a strong “Regeneration” research proposal? A strong proposal should present an original and feasible research question, establish a meaningful connection to regeneration, demonstrate appropriate use of Smithsonian resources, identify a suitable advisor and explain the broader societal or public-policy significance of the research. Conclusion The James Smithson Fellowship Program 2027 offers early-career researchers an opportunity to conduct independent research within the Smithsonian’s interdisciplinary environment while exploring the theme of Regeneration. With a $62,000 stipend and $5,000 research allowance, the programme provides significant support for researchers developing innovative projects across science, humanities and the arts. Applicants should focus on a compelling research question, strong Smithsonian alignment, mea