2026-2027 John C. Slater Predoctoral Fellowship in the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine

Description

The APS's Library & Museum seeks applicants for a nine-month, residential fellowship for graduate students specializing in the history of science. 

The nine-month fellowship for the 2026-2027 academic year is intended for advanced Ph.D. students working toward the completion of the dissertation. The caliber of the project, and evidence that the project will be completed in a timely manner, are the two most important criteria for selection. The selection committee will also take into consideration the need to be at the APS's Library & Museum and other research institutions in the Philadelphia area. Applicants’ research must pertain to topics in the history of science, technology, or medicine.

Applicants whose research subjects overlap any other APS's Library & Museum fellowship programs may also submit applications to other pertinent programs, though only one fellowship can be awarded to an individual.

[In addition, the APS's Library & Museum offers several short-term fellowships to support research using its collections. For information on the short-term fellowships visit https://www.amphilsoc.org/grants/fellowships.]

Eligibility

This fellowship is open to those who are not U.S. citizens or residents, but it does not provide visa sponsorship.

Terms

• 9 month residential fellowship
• $25,000 stipend
• $5,000 travel/research fund

Application Instructions

Applicants Will Submit:

• C.V.;

• An introductory cover letter (no more than two pages);
• Two letters of reference in support of the project and applicant;
• A project proposal of approximately 2-4 double-spaced pages (no more than 1,000 words in length). The proposal should include: a) a description of the project; b) a statement explaining the significance of the project; c) an indication of the specific APS collections the applicant wishes to consult.

Deadline: January 16, 2026

Applicants: Please use Interfolio's help desk for any issues pertaining to the online application process.

The American Philosophical Society is committed to maintaining the highest standards of scholarly excellence while supporting a working and intellectual environment that fosters an inclusive atmosphere for learning, prizes diverse origins and points of view, advances equal opportunities to learn and communicate, and encourages the widest possible access to its collections. The APS has titled these goals the APS IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equality, and Access) for its enduring institutional commitment to these values.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The American Philosophical Society is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment on any basis including race, creed, color, age, sex, gender, religion or national origin. The APS values diversity and inclusion and encourages diverse applicants to apply. Successful applicants will be asked to show proof that they can legally work in the U.S.