Astronomical Innovation (Astronova) Fellowship

The Astronomical Innovation (Astronova) Fellowship is a postdoctoral funding opportunity launched in 2026 by the Heising-Simons Foundation, a private philanthropic organization committed to advancing scientific discovery and innovation. This fellowship is designed to support early-career researchers focused on the development of novel astronomical instrumentation and aims to strengthen the pipeline of talent entering this highly technical field. With a primary focus on instrumentation in astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, and planetary science, the fellowship supports postdoctoral scientists in conducting impactful, forward-looking research that can lead to tenure-track faculty or long-term research positions. Each Astronova Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support over a four-year term, including a base salary of $85,122 in the first year with a 4% annual increase, benefits as determined by the host institution, and discretionary funds totaling $70,000 across the four years. These funds may be used for research-related expenses such as travel, relocation, dependent care, computing equipment, and other professional needs. Indirect costs are capped at 15% of direct costs. Fellows may request a fifth-year extension pending satisfactory progress, and those who transition to a faculty or permanent research role during the fellowship may apply for additional grant support to augment their startup packages. A distinctive component of the program is the Innovation Fund, a competitive grant opportunity available beginning in a fellow’s second year. Each fellow may apply for up to $150,000 to pursue an early-stage, high-risk, or otherwise hard-to-fund instrumentation concept. The goal is to empower fellows to take greater ownership of ambitious projects and further develop as independent researchers and future academic leaders. This application window remains open for three years after the end of the fellowship, offering flexibility in project planning and execution. Eligible applicants must have earned or be on track to earn a doctoral degree in astronomy, physics, planetary sciences, engineering, or related disciplines between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2026. Those who have experienced qualifying personal circumstances such as medical or family leave may request a one-year extension. U.S. citizenship is not required, though applicants must coordinate visa and work authorization with their host institution. The program welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those historically underrepresented in astronomical instrumentation. Fellows must conduct their research at one of six eligible host institutions: Carnegie Science (California or Washington, D.C. campuses), Keck Observatory (Hawai’i), University of Arizona, University of California, Berkeley, University of California, San Diego, or University of California, Santa Cruz. Applicants may submit proposals for up to two host institutions. Required materials include a cover sheet, five-page research proposal, one-page rationale for host institution selection, two-page CV, one-page summary of previous/current research, and a two-page statement on contributions toward building a stronger, more inclusive field. Two letters of recommendation must also be submitted directly by referees. All application materials must be uploaded through the Foundation’s online application portal. Applications opened on January 5, 2026 and must be submitted by 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time on February 27, 2026. The review process will take place during March and April, with notification of selection status in May 2026. Public announcement of selected fellows will follow in June. Selected applicants will join a cohort supported not only by financial resources but also by community-building opportunities such as annual research summits, mentorship from senior scientists, and professional development workshops specifically tailored to astronomical instrumentation.

Candidates should demonstrate technical leadership, innovation, and commitment to inclusivity in astronomy instrumentation.