Lemelson Center Fellowship Program
The Lemelson Center Fellowship funds research on invention and innovation in American society using Smithsonian collections, with special focus on technology history and underrepresented inventors.
Funder: Smithsonian Institution
Due Dates: October 15, 2025 (Full application & reference letters) | October 15, 2026 (anticipated next cycle)
Funding Amounts: Pre-doctoral: $850/week | Post-doctoral/Professional: $1,100/week | Up to 10 weeks
Summary: Supports research projects on invention and innovation in American society using Smithsonian collections and resources.
Key Information: Applications and reference letters must be submitted via SOLAA by the deadline; plan ahead due to high system traffic.
Description
The Lemelson Center Fellowship Program, administered by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, funds original research on invention and innovation in American society. Projects may include historical research, documentation, dissertations, publications, exhibitions, educational initiatives, documentary films, or other multimedia products. Fellows gain access to the Smithsonian’s extensive collections, archives, and research staff, particularly those related to the history of technology and invention.
The program welcomes proposals from a wide range of disciplines, especially those that:
- Explore inventors and inventions from underrepresented groups (e.g., women, minorities, LGBTQ, disabled)
- Investigate innovation in sports and sports technology
- Examine the broader ecosystem supporting inventors (e.g., professional organizations, investors, IP attorneys, designers, manufacturers)
Fellows are expected to reside temporarily in Washington, DC, participate in Center activities, and present their work to colleagues.
