Long-Term Fellowship in Political History, the Presidency, and Constitutional Thought

The George Washington Presidential Library seeks applications for its long-term fellowship on political history, the presidency, and constitutional thought for the 2025-2026 academic year. The focus of the scholar’s research should be on any aspect of political history, theory, law, constitutionalism, or the development of the government with a grounding in history. The fellowship is interdisciplinary and open to legal scholars, political scientists, historians, literature scholars, journalists, or others whose work relates to the program’s theme. Applications are open to those with a Ph.D., J.D., or equivalent stage of their career.

The fellowship provides a stipend of $60,000 for nine months or $30,000 per semester if the George Washington Presidential Library decides to offer two semester-long fellowships. There is an accompanying stipend for health insurance and research funds for conferences, supplies, and other needs. Fellows receive additional benefits at Mount Vernon, office space, discounts for onsite food and retail, and access to a range of events at Mount Vernon.

During their fellowship term, all resident fellows are expected to participate fully in the intellectual life of the George Washington Presidential Library, including attending public and scholarly events hosted by the Library.

Fellows are expected to spend their time working on a project or projects of significance. While topics need not be focused on George Washington, the projects must relate to the presidency and its political, cultural, or constitutional development. Those working on topics related to the Constitution and its implementation, the development of the presidency over time, and/or Washington’s terms as president are especially encouraged to apply. Applications will be evaluated based on the applicant’s needs, including the need for materials held by the Library, the need for time to write, and the overall scholarly significance of the proposed project(s). Projects may be in any stage of development, but preference will be given to those who need dedicated writing time or time to conduct extensive research using materials held at the Presidential Library. 

Applicants should submit:
1.    Cover Letter outlining their scholarly background, experience, and interest in this fellowship
2.    Condensed CV
3.    Proposal describing the project(s) to be worked on during the fellowship term and expected outcomes of the time. Proposals should also include the amount of time needed, whether six months or a year. Proposals should be no more than six double-spaced pages.
4.    Article or chapter-length writing sample, ideally from the proposed project.

An outside review panel will review all applicants and make a recommendation for awards. The George Washington Presidential Library may also conduct interviews for finalists.