Kellogg Institute Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships 2027-2028 in the USA | $75,000 Annual Stipend

Applications are now open for the Kellogg Institute Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships 2027-2028 at the University of Notre Dame, USA. This prestigious fellowship opportunity is designed for recently graduated PhD scholars conducting research on global democracy and related themes.

The fellowship offers outstanding early-career researchers the opportunity to advance their research agendas, engage with a vibrant scholarly community, and collaborate with leading academics and practitioners from around the world. Fellows will become part of the Kellogg Institute’s dynamic Visiting Fellows cohort while receiving generous financial and research support.

About the Kellogg Institute Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowship

The Kellogg Institute for International Studies is internationally recognized for its research on democracy, development, and global affairs. Through its Visiting Fellowship Program, the Institute brings together scholars from diverse disciplines to contribute to research and discussions on issues affecting democracy worldwide.

Postdoctoral Visiting Fellows receive dedicated time and resources to pursue independent research while participating in seminars, conferences, lectures, and collaborative activities within the Institute.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive a competitive benefits package that includes:

* Annual stipend of $75,000
* Up to $2,000 relocation allowance
* Generous research support funding
* Comprehensive medical insurance coverage
* Academic year appointment
* Possibility of renewal for a second year based on performance and mutual interest
* Access to a global network of scholars, faculty, and practitioners
* Professional development and mentoring opportunities

Research Focus Areas

The fellowship supports scholars conducting international research related to:

* Global democracy
* Democratic institutions
* Governance and political development
* Human rights
* Political participation
* Comparative politics
* International affairs
* Related social science disciplines

Interdisciplinary projects connected to democracy and democratic development are also encouraged.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

* Hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree.
* Have earned their PhD no more than three years before the fellowship start date.
* Conduct research related to global democracy.
* Demonstrate strong academic achievement and research potential.

Preferred Background

The strongest candidates typically hold a PhD in:

* Political Science
* Sociology
* Economics
* International Relations
* Anthropology
* Other social science disciplines

Exceptional applicants from other academic fields may also be considered.

Ineligible Applicants

* Graduates of University of Notre Dame PhD programs are not eligible to apply.

International Applicants

The fellowship welcomes applications from scholars worldwide.

International applicants should note:

* Advanced English proficiency is required.
* A valid passport is required.
* Successful applicants must obtain a J-1 Visa.

Fellowship Expectations

Residency Requirement

Fellows are expected to reside at Notre Dame throughout the fellowship period.

Research Presentation

Each fellow is expected to present their research during their stay.

Participation

Fellows should actively participate in:

* Weekly seminars
* Lecture series
* Research workshops
* Institute events and activities

Publications

Fellows are expected to publish research conducted during the fellowship and acknowledge Kellogg Institute support in resulting publications.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

Required Documents

* Cover Letter indicating interest and preferred fellowship period
* Curriculum Vitae (CV)
* Research Project Statement (6–10 double-spaced pages)
* Project Abstract (maximum 150 words)
* Short Biography (200–300 words)
* Writing Sample (maximum 30 pages)
* Three Confidential Letters of Recommendation

Recommendation Letters

Letters must be submitted through the Interfolio system no later than: October 7, 2026

Application Timeline

| Activity | Date |

| Applications Open | August 1, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | October 1, 2026 |
| Recommendation Letters Deadline | October 7, 2026 |

Housing Support

The Institute may offer successful fellows the opportunity to lease furnished on-campus housing during their first year, subject to availability.

Why Apply?

The Kellogg Institute Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowship provides an exceptional platform for emerging scholars to strengthen their research profile, expand professional networks, and contribute to global discussions on democracy. With generous funding, mentorship opportunities, and access to one of the leading democracy research centers in the world, the fellowship can serve as a significant steppingstone for an academic career.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Kellogg Institute’s online application system via Interfolio.

Applicants should ensure that all required documents and recommendation letters are submitted before the deadlines.

Conclusion

The Kellogg Institute Postdoctoral Visiting Fellowships 2027-2028 offer an outstanding opportunity for recently graduated PhD scholars committed to advancing research on global democracy. With an annual stipend of $75,000, relocation support, research funding, and access to a world-class scholarly community, this fellowship provides the ideal environment for early-career researchers to develop impactful academic work and establish international collaborations. Interested candidates should begin preparing their applications early and submit all required materials before the October 1, 2026 deadline. Apply on the official website HERE.

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