Deadline: October 15, 2025
Are you a researcher, scholar, or graduate student looking to conduct world-class research at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world? The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026-2027 is now open for applications, offering fully funded opportunities to engage in advanced research at the Smithsonian Institution, USA.
This highly competitive fellowship supports independent research and study, allowing fellows to utilise the Smithsonian’s vast resources, collections, and facilities across multiple disciplines.
About the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026-2027
The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026-2027 offers research fellowships to scholars, scientists, and students wishing to pursue independent research projects closely related to the Smithsonian’s collections, facilities, and research interests.
Fellows have the unique opportunity to collaborate with Smithsonian experts and access world-renowned collections in fields such as the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Fellowship Duration and Stipend
- Duration: Fellowships typically last from 3 to 12 months, depending on the category. Graduate student fellowships also offer a 10-week option.
- Funding / Stipend: Awards range from USD 10,000 to USD 57,000 per year, depending on the fellowship type and duration.
Fellowship Categories and Eligibility
The programme is open to scholars at different academic levels. Applicants must apply under the appropriate category:
1. Graduate Student Fellowships
- For students formally enrolled in a graduate programme but not yet advanced to candidacy.
- Duration: 10 weeks to 3 months.
2. Predoctoral Fellowships
- For PhD candidates who have completed all coursework and exams but have not yet defended their dissertation.
- Applicants must have university approval to conduct dissertation research at the Smithsonian.
3. Postdoctoral Fellowships
- For scholars who have completed their doctoral degree by the start of the fellowship.
- Duration typically ranges from 3 to 12 months.
4. Senior Fellowships
- For scholars who have held a PhD (or equivalent) for at least 5 years.
- Applicants who took research leave post-PhD may apply under the postdoctoral category with appropriate justification.
Key Restrictions and Conditions
- Employment Restrictions: Current Smithsonian employees or contractors are not eligible to hold a fellowship simultaneously. Those employed or contracted in the previous year may face restrictions unless approved.
- Language Requirement: All application materials must be submitted in English. Non-English transcripts must be accompanied by certified translations.
- Residency: Applicants are encouraged to propose research projects that involve in-residence collaboration with Smithsonian staff, collections, and facilities.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the Smithsonian Academic Appointment System (SOLAA).
Application Steps:
- Identify your research area and suitable Smithsonian advisor or host.
- Prepare your research proposal, CV, transcripts, and reference letters.
- Submit your application through SOLAA before the deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026-2027 is:
🗓 15 October 2025, at 11:59 PM (EST)
Why Apply for the Smithsonian Fellowship?
- Access to world-class collections and facilities.
- Opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in your field.
- Competitive stipends and support for independent research.
- Global recognition as a Smithsonian Fellow, enhancing your academic and professional profile.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Align your proposal with Smithsonian priorities: Clearly identify which Smithsonian collections, facilities, or experts your work will engage with.
- Choose the right fellowship category: Apply for the category that best fits your academic status to strengthen your application.
- Reach out to potential Smithsonian hosts early: A committed advisor or host can significantly enhance your proposal.
- Plan translations and documentation in advance: All materials must be in English.
- Start early: Give yourself time to collect strong reference letters and refine your proposal.
Important Links
Need Help With Your Application?
Preparing a competitive fellowship application can be challenging. For proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us — we can help you submit a strong, compelling application for the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026-2027.
