Smithsonian Institution Fellowship 2026–2027 in USA: Fully Funded Research Opportunity Now Open for Applications

The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program 2026–2027 in the USA is now open for applications, offering researchers a prestigious opportunity to engage in in-residence study across a wide range of disciplines. The fellowship is designed for graduate students, predoctoral researchers, postdoctoral scholars, and senior researchers who want to conduct independent research aligned with the Smithsonian’s collections and academic expertise. Hosted by the Smithsonian’s Office of Academic Appointments and Internships, this program provides access to the world’s largest museum and research complex, allowing fellows to work closely with leading experts and use state-of-the-art facilities.

Fellowship durations vary by category. Graduate student fellowships run for ten weeks, predoctoral fellowships last from three to twelve months, and postdoctoral and senior fellowships can extend from three to twenty-four months. All fellowship types are fully funded, offering competitive stipends and additional research allowances. For instance, graduate students receive a $10,000 stipend, predoctoral fellows receive $45,000 with a $5,000 research allowance, and postdoctoral or senior fellows receive $57,000 plus up to $5,000 in research funds.

The Smithsonian fellowship supports research across various fields including anthropology, environmental science, astrophysics, paleobiology, art history, molecular biology, and the social and cultural history of the United States. Interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged, especially those that explore and expand upon the Smithsonian’s core research themes. Fellows are expected to remain in residence at Smithsonian facilities unless fieldwork or travel is approved as part of their research.

To be eligible, applicants must submit a detailed research proposal related to one of the Smithsonian’s key areas. Graduate student applicants must be enrolled in a degree-granting program and have completed at least one full-time semester. Predoctoral candidates should be PhD students with all requirements completed except for the dissertation. Postdoctoral applicants must have completed their doctoral degree by the start of the fellowship, while senior candidates must have held a PhD for at least five years.

Applicants are required to submit an abstract, a six-page research proposal, a budget and justification, curriculum vitae, bibliography, transcripts (unofficial copies accepted), and two letters of reference. The application must be submitted online in English, and the fellowship term must begin between June 1, 2026, and May 30, 2027.

This international research opportunity is ideal for those seeking to advance their academic career in a globally respected institution. The deadline to apply for the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship 2026–2027 is October 15, 2025.