The Mercatus Center has opened applications for the Don Lavoie Fellowship, a fully online programme designed to introduce emerging scholars to political economy.
The fellowship targets students and early-career professionals who are exploring graduate study or seeking to build strong foundations in policy-relevant research.
Focus
The fellowship is grounded in the Austrian, Virginia and Bloomington schools of political economy. Participants are guided through core ideas, foundational texts and contemporary research that connect economic thinking to real-world policy questions.
The programme emphasises intellectual exploration rather than certification, helping fellows test, refine and clarify their academic and research interests.
Funding details
Each fellow may receive up to $1,250, which covers a modest stipend, all required readings for the online programme and access to academic guidance.
Fellows also benefit from informal mentoring and practical advice on research pathways, graduate school preparation and early career decision-making.
Eligibility
The fellowship is open globally and welcomes applicants from all academic and professional backgrounds.
Eligible candidates include:
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Undergraduate students
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Recent graduates
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Young professionals considering graduate study
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Early-stage graduate students
Applicants must remain eligible throughout the application process and for the full duration of the fellowship.
Programme structure
The Don Lavoie Fellowship is delivered as a structured, semester-long virtual programme. Participants engage in scheduled online activities that combine guided reading, discussion and exposure to current scholarship.
The fully virtual schedule allows fellows from diverse countries and disciplines to participate without the need for relocation.
Application process
Applicants must submit an online application that includes a one- to two-page cover letter, a current CV or résumé, short-answer responses and two short essays.
Applications are reviewed after the deadline, with decisions typically announced 12 weeks or more later. Selection is competitive and based on academic interest, clarity of purpose and alignment with political economy themes.
Deadline
Interested candidates can apply via the Mercatus Centre website. Applications close on April 15, 2026. Check out more online study initiatives on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
