This fellowship supports in-residence research on overlooked or marginalized landscape histories and their intersections with democracy, race, and identity at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, DC.
Funder: Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (Full application, recommendations, and transcripts)
Funding Amounts: $17,500 per semester or $35,000 per academic year; includes housing or allowance, weekday lunch, and health insurance contribution
Summary: Supports cross-disciplinary research on democracy and landscape histories, emphasizing neglected or forgotten place narratives.
Key Information: In-residence fellowship in Washington, DC; preference for applicants with terminal degrees (PhD or MLA).
The Mellon Fellowships in Democracy and Landscape Studies at Dumbarton Oaks are designed for cross-disciplinary scholars interested in researching landscape histories—especially those narratives that have been overlooked or marginalized. The program encourages inquiry into the intersections of democracy, the public realm, race, identity, and difference as they relate to place and community histories. Fellows become part of an active scholarly community in Washington, DC, and are expected to be in residence for either a semester or a full academic year, dedicating themselves fully to their research projects.