[Smith Richardson Foundation](https://www.srf.org)

October 2026 (application submission deadline, projected)

Up to 20 awards of $10,000 each; one-year support for dissertation research

Supports Ph.D. dissertation research in international relations and related fields, emphasizing policy-relevant topics.

--- ## Description The fellowship supports doctoral dissertation research in areas such as American foreign policy, international relations, international security, strategic studies, area studies, and diplomatic and military history. Its primary goal is to strengthen the U.S. community of young scholars engaged in policy-relevant research by providing funding for field work, archival research, and language training. The program specifically favors projects that could directly inform U.S. policy debates and thinking, rather than those focused mainly on theoretical or academic concerns. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026 (anticipated application submission deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Up to 20 fellowships awarded annually - Each fellowship provides $10,000 for one year of dissertation research - Funds may be used for field work, archival research, language training, and related research expenses (preference is given to these uses over living expenses or equipment) --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be full-time Ph.D. students at a U.S. university. - If applying from a non-U.S. university, the institution must have a properly incorporated U.S. 501(c)3 entity, and a cover letter of sponsorship is required from that entity. - Applicants must have completed all coursework and passed all qualifying examinations by the application deadline. - Previous fellowship winners may reapply but must provide a summary of prior fellowship-supported activities. --- ## Application Process - Submit a single PDF application by email to [worldpolitics@srf.org](mailto:worldpolitics@srf.org). - Required components: - Cover letter from the applicant's institution certifying eligibility and fund administration (no overhead charged). - Research proposal (max 3 pages, plus references). - Appendices: - Budget (1 page) - Curriculum vitae (CV) - Letter of recommendation (may be sent separately) - For previous fellows: summary of past fellowship activities - The proposal must outline the policy relevance of the dissertation, research design, and how the fellowship will advance the project. - Only one recommendation letter is required. - Applicants are responsible for ensuring all materials, including the recommendation letter, are received by the deadline. --- ## Additional Information - There are no strict limitations on how funds may be used, but preference is given to research-related expenses. - The foundation does not notify applicants about missing recommendation letters and will not extend the deadline for late materials. - Proposals not conforming to requirements will not be considered. --- ## External Links - [Program Page and Full Details](https://www.srf.org/programs/international-security-foreign-policy/world-politics-statecraft-fellowship/) - [Application Requirements and Proposal Template (PDF)](https://gregoryt26.sg-host.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2021-WPFP-Application-Requirements-and-Proposal-Template.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Type | Details | |-----------------|-------------------------------------------| | Phone | +1 (203) 222-6222 | | Email | [worldpolitics@srf.org](mailto:worldpolitics@srf.org) | | Address | 60 Jesup Road, Westport, CT 06880, USA |

World Politics & Statecraft Fellowship

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