Advance your research with the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Programme

By Ismah Ayomide

Contents

Duration Financial support Eligibility Application requirements Deadline

The world-renowned Smithsonian Institution is inviting scholars from across the globe to apply for its Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Programme (SIFP).

This programme offers an opportunity to conduct groundbreaking research within the nation’s museums and research centres, engaging directly with vast collections and collaborating with leading experts.

The SIFP supports independent study and advanced research across diverse academic fields. Fellows are expected to make active use of the Smithsonian’s unparalleled resources—its collections, state-of-the-art facilities, and the expertise of its dedicated staff—while pursuing projects that advance knowledge and spark new discoveries.

Duration

Appointments vary by academic stage:

Graduate Students: 10-week appointments ideal for focused projects
Pre-doctoral Fellows: 3–12 months for dissertation research
Postdoctoral Fellows: 3–12 months for advanced independent projects
Senior Fellows: 3–12 months for established researchers pursuing new directions

All fellows must conduct their research in residence at a Smithsonian facility.

Financial support

Graduate Students: $10,000 (10-week stipend)
Pre-doctoral Fellows: $45,000 per year
Postdoctoral & Senior Fellows: $60,000 per year
Research Allowance: Up to $5,000 for project-related expenses (equipment, travel, materials, etc.)

Eligibility

Graduate students: Enrolled in a graduate program, completed at least one semester and approved by their university to conduct Smithsonian research
Pre-doctoral fellows: Completed coursework and exams, actively working on dissertation research
Postdoctoral fellows: Ph.D. (or equivalent) awarded within the last 7 years
Senior fellows: Ph.D. (or equivalent) held for 7+ years