Early-career scholars rarely get a full year inside one of the world’s largest research and museum complexes with the freedom to connect their work to public policy. The James Smithson Fellowship does exactly that.
The 2027 cohort centers on the theme “Regeneration.” Fellows spend 12 months primarily in residence at the Smithsonian, drawing on its collections, experts and interdisciplinary culture while exploring how societies, ecosystems and cultures renew and adapt.
James Smithson Fellowship Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | James Smithson Fellowship Program 2027 |
| Host | Smithsonian Institution |
| Theme | Regeneration |
| Stipend | US$62,000 |
| Research allowance | US$5,000 |
| Duration | 12 months (primarily in residence) |
| Start window | As early as 1 June 2027; no later than 1 May 2028 |
| Deadline | 15 October 2026 |
What the Fellowship Offers
- Access to Smithsonian museums, laboratories, archives, collections and databases
- Collaboration with Smithsonian researchers and subject experts
- Interdisciplinary exchange across science, history, culture and the arts
- Professional development linking academic research to public-policy conversations
- Experience communicating research beyond traditional academic audiences
- One-time travel allowance (available under Smithsonian policy)
- Contribution toward eligible health-insurance costs
Fellows pursue independent research while gaining skills to consider the wider significance and policy implications of their work. Also see SEAOHUN ASEAN One Health Climate Fellowship Fully Funded
2027 Theme: Regeneration
The theme invites research on how societies, environments and cultural traditions renew and adapt over time. Regeneration is defined broadly. It can include:
- Ecological restoration and resilience
- Conservation of cultural heritage
- Revitalization of traditional knowledge
- Rebuilding communities after disruption
- Technological innovation
- Long-term social adaptation
Projects may span different historical periods, regions and cultural contexts. Originality and clear interdisciplinary relevance are expected.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- United States citizen
- Hold a doctoral degree or eligible terminal professional degree
- Be no more than five years beyond receipt of the doctorate at the time of application
- Work in the sciences, humanities or the arts
- Demonstrate strong potential for interdisciplinary research and leadership
Only candidates who identify a Smithsonian research advisor in advance will be reviewed.
Application Components
Applications are submitted exclusively through the Smithsonian Academic Appointment System (SOLAA). Required materials include:
- Abstract (maximum one page, double-spaced)
- Research proposal (maximum six pages, double-spaced, 11-point font or larger, 1-inch margins)
- Description of research and methodology
- How the work may inform public policy
- Importance to the broader discipline and the applicant’s scholarly goals
- Justification for conducting the research at the Smithsonian
- Identification of the Smithsonian principal advisor (required; contact the advisor before applying)
- Timetable covering the full fellowship period
- Budget and justification for research costs (equipment, supplies, research-related travel; excludes stipend and relocation; maximum research allowance $5,000)
- Bibliography (maximum two pages)
- Curriculum vitae (maximum five pages, including research interests)
- Transcripts from the terminal-degree institution (unofficial acceptable)
- Two confidential letters of recommendation from non-Smithsonian referees
Applicants are strongly encouraged to correspond with a prospective advisor while preparing the proposal.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated by Smithsonian scholars on:
- Innovation and relevance to the Regeneration theme
- Potential to inform public policy
- Ability to carry out the proposed research
- Likelihood of completion within 12 months
- Extent to which Smithsonian staff and resources can contribute
- Alignment of the applicant’s career goals with the fellowship
- Evidence of leadership potential
- Quality of the academic record
Timeline and How to Apply
Deadline: 15 October 2026 at 4:59 p.m. Eastern Time
Apply through the official SOLAA system via the Smithsonian Office of Academic Appointments and Internships website:
https://fellowships.si.edu/opportunity/james-smithson-fellowship-program
Contact the Office of Academic Appointments and Internships for guidance. Identify and confirm a Smithsonian advisor well before the deadline.