Lemelson Center Fellowship Program
The Lemelson Center Fellowship supports research on invention and innovation in American society, emphasizing diverse inventors, technology, and access to Smithsonian resources.
Funder: Smithsonian Institution
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Full application) | October 2026 (Reference letters)
Funding Amounts: Pre-doctoral: $850/week | Post-doctoral/Professional: $1,100/week | Up to 10 weeks
Summary: Supports innovative research projects on invention and innovation in American society, encouraging diverse scholarly and creative outputs.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all deadlines are projected and subject to change.
Description
The Lemelson Center Fellowship Program, offered by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, supports original research and creative projects that explore invention and innovation in American society. The program welcomes proposals across a broad spectrum of topics in the history of technology, invention, and innovation, with particular encouragement for projects that:
- Illuminate inventors from diverse backgrounds or inventions associated with under-represented groups (e.g., women, minorities, LGBTQ, disabled)
- Explore innovation in sports and sports technology
- Examine the broader ecosystem supporting inventors, such as professional organizations, investors, incubators, and legal or design professionals
Fellows gain access to the Smithsonian’s vast collections, archives, and staff expertise, and are expected to reside temporarily in Washington, DC, participate in Center activities, and present their work to colleagues.
