Overview
The 2027 James Smithson Fellowship invites proposals that explore how societies, environments, and cultural traditions renew and adapt over time. From ecological adaptation to the conservation of cultural heritage, this theme emphasizes processes of renewal while preserving continuity. It encourages interdisciplinary research examining restoration, resilience, adaptation, and continuity. Regeneration may take multiple forms, including the restoration of ecosystems, the revitalization of cultural practices, the rebuilding of communities following disruption, and technological innovation. Drawing on the Smithsonian’s breath of expertise across science, history, and the arts, applicants are encouraged to examine how processes of regeneration unfold across diverse temporal and spatial contexts. The James Smithson Fellowship Program was created to offer early career opportunities for post-doc
Complete research opportunity details
Full Job Description
All applications must be submitted by October 15, 2026, 4:59 pm ET deadline.
Theme For 2027: Regeneration
The 2027 James Smithson Fellowship invites proposals that explore how societies, environments, and cultural traditions renew and adapt over time. From ecological adaptation to the conservation of cultural heritage, this theme emphasizes processes of renewal while preserving continuity. It encourages interdisciplinary research examining restoration, resilience, adaptation, and continuity.
Regeneration may take multiple forms, including the restoration of ecosystems, the revitalization of cultural practices, the rebuilding of communities following disruption, and technological innovation. Drawing on the Smithsonian’s breath of expertise across science, history, and the arts, applicants are encouraged to examine how processes of regeneration unfold across diverse temporal and spatial contexts. The James Smithson Fellowship Program was created to offer early career opportunities for post-doctoral researchers interested in gaining a better understanding about the interplay between scholarship and public policy through a Smithsonian lens. The fellowship provides an immersive experience that allows fellows to engage with Smithsonian researchers and relevant collections while encouraging them to consider their research within a broader framework, reflecting on its wider significance and potential policy implications.
The program is designed for a new generation of leaders, who seek to deepen their disciplinary expertise in an innovative environment. The goals of the James Smithson Fellowship Program provide fellows with the opportunity to:
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Access the Smithsonian’s facilities, extensive collections, databases, and research experts
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Engage with a variety of perspectives from multiple disciplines
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Consider the policy implications of their research and gain skills to inform policy conversations
Eligibility: Postdoctoral researchers in the fields of science, the humanities, and the arts. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and not more than five years beyond receipt of their doctorate degree. Candidates with terminal professional degrees are also eligible to apply.
Term: The appointment is for 12 months (primarily in-residence). Appointment may commence as early as June 1, 2027, and no later than May 1, 2028.
Stipend: $62,000, and $5,000 in research allowance. Additional support may include a one-time travel allowance and a contribution toward health insurance costs.
Contact: Office of Academic Appointments and Internships E-mail: InternsAndFellows@si.edu
Tips for this postdoctoral opportunity
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- Match your research background to the project, laboratory, supervisor and required methods rather than applying only from the title.
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- Contact a supervisor before applying only when the official instructions recommend or require it.
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