James Smithson Fellowship Program

Theme for 2025: Migration

The James Smithson Fellowship for 2025 invites applications for the theme of “migration”, which could encompass everything from the movement of monarch butterflies to the diaspora of humans across time and space. It’s been central in our evolutionary dynamics, population genetics, and ecosystems. Migration also carries deep significance as it profoundly impacts cultural identity and expression, reshaping communities and altering cultural narratives and artistic practices that foster new forms of creativity. Taken together these transformative processes create a rich tapestry of diverse experiences and influences that illustrate how migration shapes both our natural world and our cultural landscapes.

Applicants are encouraged to use migration as a lens to explore a wide range of fields from art, history, culture to science, considering its impact on everything from identities to ecosystems.

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:

• Access the Smithsonian’s facilities, extensive collections, databases, and research experts
• Engage with diverse perspectives from multiple disciplines
• 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.

Stipend: $62,000, and a $5,000 in research allowance. In addition to this base stipend, allowances may also be provided to help cover relocation, and health insurance.

Contact: Office of Academic Appointments and Internships
E-mail: InternsAndFellows@si.edu