The AAUW American Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship funds early-career women in the U.S. to conduct independent postdoctoral research in any field for one year, promoting gender equity and academic leadership.
Funder: American Association of University Women
Due Dates: August 17, 2026 (Application opens) | September 30, 2026 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $50,000 for one year, paid in two installments
Summary: Supports early-career women scholars in the U.S. to pursue independent postdoctoral research for one year, advancing gender equity and academic leadership.
This fellowship provides funding for early-career women scholars in the United States to undertake independent postdoctoral research over the course of one year. The program aims to increase the number of women in academic research, development, and leadership, and to promote gender equity in higher education. All fields of study are eligible, with particular encouragement for applicants in STEM or those researching gender issues. The award is intended to support original research that will make significant contributions to the applicant’s field and help advance their academic careers.