Smithsonian James Smithson Fellowship Program 2027: U.S. Postdoctoral Researchers Can Receive a $62,000 Stipend and $5,000 Research Allowance
Applications are open for the Smithsonian James Smithson Fellowship Program 2027, a 12-month research opportunity for early-career postdoctoral researchers in the United States. Fellows receive a $62,000 stipend and a research allowance of up to $5,000 to pursue independent interdisciplinary research centered on the theme of "Regeneration."
Overview
Administered through the Smithsonian Institution’s Office of Academic Appointments and Internships, the James Smithson Fellowship Program offers early-career postdoctoral researchers an immersive 12-month research opportunity in science, the humanities, and the arts. Fellows work in residence, gaining access to Smithsonian experts, facilities, databases, and extensive collections. The 2027 cycle centers on the theme "Regeneration," inviting proposals that explore how societies, environments, technologies, communities, and cultural traditions renew, recover, adapt, and maintain continuity over time.
Benefits
- A $62,000 stipend for the 12-month appointment.
- A research allowance of up to $5,000.
- Potential additional support, including a one-time travel allowance and a contribution toward health insurance costs.
- Access to world-class Smithsonian research facilities, collections, databases, and expert staff.
Eligibility
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be a postdoctoral researcher in science, the humanities, or the arts, generally no more than five years beyond receiving a doctorate degree (candidates holding terminal professional degrees are also eligible).
- Must identify and coordinate with a suitable Smithsonian research advisor listed in the Smithsonian Opportunities for Research and Study (SORS) guide prior to application.
- Current employees and contractors of the Smithsonian Institution are ineligible, and former employees or contractors generally require a one-year separation period.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit their complete applications electronically through the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA). The submission requires several detailed components:
- A one-page double-spaced research abstract.
- A detailed research proposal of no more than six pages.
- An estimated research timetable covering the 12-month period.
- A budget and budget justification detailing anticipated research expenses.
- A bibliography not exceeding two pages.
- A current curriculum vitae of up to five pages (including English proficiency details for non-native speakers).
- Academic transcripts from terminal degree institutions.
- Two confidential letters of recommendation submitted online by non-Smithsonian references.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by October 15, 2026, at 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). Fellowship appointments may begin as early as June 1, 2027, and must commence no later than May 1, 2028.