Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2026-27 and University of Virginia, USA (August 2026)

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2026-27 is an elite academic initiative designed to support doctoral candidates as they complete their dissertations. Specifically focusing on United States politics, the program bridges the gap between deep historical research and contemporary public policy. Consequently, selected fellows are integrated into a world-class interdisciplinary community at the University of Virginia, where they receive the financial security and expert mentorship necessary to transition from advanced students to prominent junior scholars.

Program Highlights

Program Overview

The primary objective of the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship is to fund outstanding scholars at leading institutions who are conducting research on American politics, public policy, and foreign relations. Furthermore, the program emphasizes historical and institutional analyses that shed light on the relationship between the United States and the global community. Fellows are paired with renowned senior mentors who provide critical feedback on their writing and general research advice, ensuring that the final dissertation meets the highest standards of intellectual excellence.

Eligibility Criteria

This fellowship is specifically tailored for advanced graduate students rather than post-doctoral researchers:

• Academic Status: Applicants must be PhD candidates who are in the final stages of their dissertation.
• Research Focus: Projects must address U.S. politics, including history, law, political economy, media, and sociology.
• Citizenship: The program is open to both U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens globally.
• Residency: While residency in Charlottesville is encouraged, it is not mandatory. However, all fellows must participate in two-week on-campus residential visits and two annual conferences.
• Commitment: Fellows must engage in the Foundation’s interdisciplinary community and participate in workshops and symposia.

Curriculum & Areas of Study

The fellowship welcomes a broad range of scholarly inquiries, particularly those falling under these specialized tracks:

• Louis Galambos Fellowship: Dedicated to business and politics, requiring residency at the Hagley Library.
• Ambrose Monell Foundation Fellowship: Focused on groundbreaking research in technology and democracy.
• General National Fellowship: Covering historical and institutional analyses of foreign policy and public management.

Learning Outcomes

By participating in the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2026-27, scholars will:

• Complete a high-impact dissertation under the guidance of a senior mentor.
• Assemble and lead a collaborative research network focused on their area of expertise.
• Gain professional skills in grant writing, data analytics, and public engagement (op-eds and blogs).
• Develop a professional network through the Foundation’s alumni and faculty connections.

Registration & Required Documents

The selection committee reviews applications based on scholarly excellence and leadership potential.

Contact Information

For technical support or detailed questions regarding the 2026-2027 cycle:

• Organization: Jefferson Scholars Foundation
• Email: selection@jeffersonscholars.org
• Address: 112 Clarke Ct, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
• Official Website: Jefferson Scholars Foundation

Key Highlights

The program is uniquely structured to facilitate the public impact of academic research. In addition to the $30,000 stipend, fellows are provided with up to $5,000 in dedicated research funds. Moreover, the Foundation pays for all expenses related to the fall and spring conferences. A key highlight is the workshop with a renowned university press editor, which concludes the spring conference to help fellows prepare their manuscripts for publication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply if I have already finished my PhD?
Specifically, no. This is a dissertation-completion fellowship, not a post-doctoral opportunity.

Is the $30,000 stipend renewable?
Yes, while the initial award is for one year, fellows may qualify for a second year of support depending on their progress and project requirements.

Are there specific requirements for the “Network Proposal”?
Yes. You must identify scholars whose work is central to your own and explain how a working group with them would advance your research ambitions.

What is the “Op-ed” requirement?
Applicants must submit a sample of public engagement, such as a blog post or op-ed, that applies their research findings to a current public policy problem.

Do I have to live at the University of Virginia?
Residency is encouraged but not required. However, you must be able to attend the required conferences and short-term residential visits.