American Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship

The American Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship Program, administered by the American Association of University Women, aims to increase the representation of women in tenure-track faculty positions and promote gender equity in higher education. This fellowship provides funding for women in academia to engage in independent research for a duration of one year. The program is open to applicants from all fields of study, with a particular encouragement for those in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as those researching gender issues. The fellowship has a long history, having been established in 1888, making it one of the oldest non-institutional sources of funding for graduate and postdoctoral women in the United States. The primary purpose of the fellowship is to support women scholars in their research endeavors, thereby contributing to their professional development and enhancing their opportunities for securing tenure-track positions. The fellowship not only provides financial support but also aims to foster a more equitable academic environment by addressing the historical underrepresentation of women in higher education. The fellowship offers a stipend of $50,000 for the grant period, which runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. This funding can be utilized for various research-related expenses, allowing recipients to focus on their independent research projects without the burden of financial constraints. The program is designed to support women who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges, such as socioeconomic barriers or discrimination, and those who have been first-generation college graduates or come from single-parent households. Eligibility for the fellowship is restricted to individuals who identify as women and hold a relevant doctoral degree at the time of application. Preferred candidates include those pursuing studies in STEM fields or researching gender issues, as well as those who have faced significant life challenges. Additionally, applicants from specific states, including Arkansas, West Virginia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Alabama, Tennessee, or Indiana, are given preference. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The application process requires candidates to submit a detailed proposal outlining their research plans, along with other required documentation. Specific application questions will guide applicants in articulating their research objectives and the impact of their work. The evaluation criteria will focus on the quality of the research proposal, the applicant's academic background, and their potential for contributing to gender equity in academia. The deadline for submitting applications is November 15, 2024. It is important for prospective applicants to prepare their materials well in advance of this date to ensure a complete submission. For further information, applicants can visit the AAUW website or contact the organization directly via email or phone. This fellowship represents a significant opportunity for women scholars to advance their research careers and contribute to the academic community.