Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2025 For PhD Candidates In The USA

Applications are now open for the prestigious Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2025 for PhD candidates in the USA. Below, you’ll find all the essential details about this incredible opportunity and how to apply.

About the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship is an esteemed program designed to support exceptional scholars pursuing their doctoral studies. Specifically targeting those working on dissertations related to United States politics, this fellowship places a particular emphasis on historical and institutional analyses of politics, public policy, and foreign relations.

This fellowship provides scholars with an unparalleled opportunity to engage with a dynamic and interdisciplinary community of distinguished academics, researchers, and mentors at the University of Virginia. By fostering connections with the Jefferson Scholars Foundation’s network, fellows gain invaluable guidance and resources to advance their research and professional development.

Eligible Fields

The fellowship supports research in the following areas:

Historical and institutional analyses of politics

Public policy
Foreign relations

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Doctoral Candidacy: Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD program and either plan to complete their dissertation by the end of the fellowship year or have a detailed two-year timeline for completing their dissertation.
Non-Postdoctoral Fellowship: This opportunity is exclusively for PhD candidates. Those who have already completed their doctorate are not eligible.
Citizenship: Open to both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens.

Mentorship and Networking: Fellows are required to collaborate with a mentor to build a scholarly network focused on their research area. The research must address significant policy-related questions.
Residency and Participation:
- Fellows are expected to participate in on-campus residencies at the Jefferson Scholars Foundation for up to two weeks, except for Galambos Fellows, who hold residencies at the Hagley Library.
- Attendance at the fall conference is mandatory to present dissertation drafts, establish academic connections, and outline professional development objectives.
- Participation in the spring conference is also required, where fellows workshop their research, prepare for publication, and receive feedback from junior and senior scholars.
Community Engagement: Fellows must actively contribute to the interdisciplinary academic environment fostered by the Jefferson Scholars Foundation.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following documents to complete their application:

Curriculum Vitae (CV): Maximum of 2 pages.
Research Plan: A concise outline of the proposed research (500 words max).

Bibliography: Up to 3 pages listing relevant sources.
Network Proposal: A detailed plan (up to 1,200 words) on how the applicant will establish a research network.
Op-Ed or Blog Post: A short, engaging piece (750 words max) demonstrating the applicant’s ability to communicate their research to a broader audience.

Project Description: A detailed explanation of the dissertation project, its goals, and significance (up to 1,200 words).
Writing Sample: A representative excerpt of the applicant’s work (40 pages max).
Statement of Interest in Professional Development: A 500-word statement outlining the applicant’s professional growth objectives.

Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation, including one from the applicant’s advisor. Letters may be submitted through the application portal or sent directly to the Selection Committee via email at nationalfellows@jeffersonscholars.org.

Eligible Countries

This fellowship is open to applicants from all countries.

Benefits of the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship offers an array of benefits designed to support scholars in their academic and professional journeys:

Financial Support: Each Fellow receives a $30,000 stipend for their first year. An additional $30,000 may be awarded for a second year, contingent on satisfactory progress.
Mentorship: Fellows are paired with senior scholars who serve as mentors, offering tailored guidance, feedback, and literature recommendations.
Collaborative Networks: Fellows are encouraged to build a robust research network, engaging with former fellows, mentors, faculty, and other scholars in their field.

Leadership Training: The program provides professional development opportunities, including training in grant writing, data analysis, and public engagement.
Research Funding: Fellows can access up to $5,000 in additional funding to support their research efforts.
Academic Development: Participation in conferences and workshops allows fellows to refine their dissertations, receive constructive feedback, and prepare their work for publication.

How to Apply

Note: The deadline to apply for the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2025 is February 1, 2025. Ensure your application and all supporting documents are submitted by this date to be considered.

To apply, visit the official award webpage and complete the online application process. Ensure that all required documents are uploaded and submitted by the application deadline of February 1, 2025.

This fellowship is a remarkable opportunity for PhD candidates to advance their research, build influential networks, and develop skills that will prepare them for impactful careers in academia and policy-making.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY