Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026 – Applications Now Open
Introduction
The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026 is now accepting applications. This prestigious fellowship gives scholars from graduate students to senior researchers the chance to carry out independent research while being in residence at the Smithsonian. With access to unrivaled collections, archives, and mentorship from Smithsonian curators and researchers, this is a golden opportunity for those pursuing cutting-edge work in science, humanities, and more.
Key Details & Fellowship Categories
| Fellowship Type | Duration | Eligible For |
|---|---|---|
| Ten-Week Graduate Student Fellowship | 10 weeks | Master’s students or early PhD students not yet advanced to candidacy |
| Predoctoral Fellowship | 3 to 12 months | PhD candidates conducting dissertation research |
| Postdoctoral Fellowship | 3 to 12 months (up to 24 months in sciences) | Scholars within 5 years of PhD completion |
| Senior Fellowship | 3 to 12 months | For scholars with a PhD for at least 5 years |
Institution
Stipends & Research Allowances
- Graduate Student Fellowship: $10,000 for the 10-week term.
- Predoctoral Fellows: $45,000/year + up to $5,000 research allowance.
- Postdoctoral & Senior Fellows: $57,000/year + up to $5,000 research allowance. In Earth & Planetary Sciences, stipend increases to $62,000/year.
Fields & Research Scope
The fellowship supports a wide variety of research areas. Applicants are encouraged to consider interdisciplinary proposals. Supported fields include but aren’t limited to:
- Animal behavior, ecology, environmental science (especially tropics)
- Anthropology: archaeology, linguistics, cultural & physical anthropology
- Astrophysics and astronomy; Earth sciences; molecular biology; evolutionary biology
- History of science & technology; art history (American, African, Asian, contemporary); materials science; folklife; social & cultural history
Eligibility & Application Requirements
- Must fit one of the fellowship categories (graduate, predoctoral, postdoctoral, senior) at the time the fellowship begins.
- Applicants are encouraged to identify a Smithsonian staff member who could serve as an advisor / host. Strong proposals show alignment with Smithsonian collections/facilities.
- Proposals should clearly explain why the Smithsonian is the right place for the research. Use of archives, collections, or staff expertise strengthens applications.
Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP) 2026 – Applications Now Open
Application Timeline & How to Apply
- Deadline: October 15, 2025 — all applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST.
- Fellowship Start Period: Between June 1, 2026 and May 30, 2027.
- Applications are submitted via the Smithsonian’s Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA).
- Required materials typically include a detailed research proposal, CV, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation.
Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP)
Why This Fellowship Is a Game Changer
- The Smithsonian Institution offers unmatched access to massive collections, world-class archives, museums, and research centers resources that can elevate any scholarly work.
- Competitive stipends and allowances allow fellows to focus deeply on research without much financial stress.
- Being selected enhances academic credentials and opens doors: publications, collaborations, and networking with leading scholars.
Tips for a Winning Application
- Do your homework: Connect with potential Smithsonian advisors ahead of time to discuss feasibility and resources.
- Make your project stand out: Explain how your research is innovative, interdisciplinary, or fills a gap in your field.
- Use the Smithsonian collections or archives: Show clear links to materials you’ll need.
- Be clear & realistic: Define your timeline, methodology, and feasibility.
- Get strong letters of recommendation and ensure transcripts / translations are in order.
Conclusion
The Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program 2026 is a top-tier opportunity for scholars around the world. With generous funding, world-leading resources, and flexible research terms, this fellowship is a dream for those committed to advancing knowledge. If you qualify, don’t miss the October 15, 2025 deadline submit a polished proposal and take your research to the next level.
Categories
- Graduate Student Fellowship: 10 weeks, stipend $10,000.
- Predoctoral Fellowship: 3–12 months, stipend $45,000/year + research allowance.
- Postdoctoral Fellowship: 3–12 months (up to 24 months in sciences), stipend $57,000–62,000/year.
- Senior Fellowship: 3–12 months, stipend $57,000/year + allowance.
Fields of Research
The fellowship supports a wide range of disciplines including:
- Sciences: animal behavior, ecology, evolutionary biology, earth sciences, astrophysics.
- Humanities: anthropology, history, art history, folklore, cultural studies.
- Interdisciplinary research that leverages Smithsonian’s collections and expertise.
Eligibility & Application Deadline
- Open to graduate, predoctoral, postdoctoral, and senior scholars worldwide.
- Applicants must demonstrate strong alignment with Smithsonian resources.
- Deadline: October 15, 2025
- Fellowship start dates: June 1, 2026 – May 30, 2027
Apply via the Smithsonian’s Online Academic Appointment System (SOLAA).
Why Apply?
Access to unparalleled collections & archives
Generous stipends & research support
Mentorship from leading Smithsonian experts
Global recognition & academic advancement
How to Apply
Visit the official fellowship portal: Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP)