GSIDI Mentorship Program Fall 2026: Johns Hopkins and AEI Initiative for Prospective Political Science PhD Applicants
The Fall 2026 Graduate Student Intellectual Diversity Initiative Mentorship Program supports prospective graduate students pursuing PhD studies in Political Science, Political Theory, and related fields.
Overview
The Graduate Student Intellectual Diversity Initiative (GSIDI) Mentorship Program is a joint project led by Steve Teles of the Johns Hopkins University SNF Agora Institute and Jenna Storey of the American Enterprise Institute (AEI). The initiative aims to strengthen intellectual diversity within higher education by supporting prospective scholars considering academic careers in Political Science, Political Theory, and related academic research areas.
Selected participants are matched with faculty mentors from leading PhD-granting institutions to receive individualized guidance during the fall semester as they prepare applications for doctoral study. The program focuses particularly on students whose research interests, hypotheses, or theoretical perspectives are conservative, moderate, or heterodox liberal, though the mentor network comprises scholars from various political viewpoints united by a commitment to academic intellectual diversity.
Eligibility
The mentorship program is primarily designed for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Prospective graduate students actively preparing applications for PhD programs during the Fall 2026 admissions cycle.
- Applicants interested in Political Science, Political Theory, or closely related academic research areas.
- Candidates seeking guidance from experienced faculty members regarding doctoral admissions, research direction, and academic careers.
How to Apply
Prospective applicants must submit their details through the official application form. The application process requires candidates to provide:
- Information concerning their academic background and graduate-school plans.
- A detailed summary of their research interests and academic focus.
- An uploaded copy of their university transcript.
For questions or inquiries regarding the program or application fit, candidates can contact Jacob Bruggeman via email at [email protected].
Deadline
The priority application deadline is September 15, 2026.