Fellowship

NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship

National Academy of Education Original Source
Award

$70,000 - $70,000

Deadline

Nov 13, 2025

Deadline passed
Location

Global

Applicants

individual

About This Opportunity

The NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship supports early career scholars working in critical areas of education research. Through professional development, funding, and mentorship from senior scholars, the fellowship enhances the career and research opportunities of the fellow. As a highly competitive initiative, this fellowship annually identifies and supports 25 of the most exceptional researchers conducting postdoctoral studies relevant to education. This non-residential fellowship supports scholars who promise to make significant contributions to the field of education and advances the careers of the recipients. Scholars may conduct their research at their home institution or at another research site that they have arranged. The fellowship comprises three key components: Fellows receive $70,000 for one academic year, distributed in two installments; Fellows participate in three professional development retreats facilitated by NAEd members and other distinguished scholars; and Fellows choose an NAEd member or another esteemed scholar as a mentor, providing guidance and support throughout the academic year.

Duration 12 - 25 mo
25 awards
Decision 6 months

Who Can Apply

Region
Global
Applicants
individual
Post-degree
Up to 6 years

Application Details

Stages

  1. 1 multi_round

Required documents

cv research_proposal letters_of_recommendation writing_sample

Review process

Four-stage review process: (1) Staff screen for completeness and fit; (2) Selection committee reviews and chooses 50-60 semifinalists in February; (3) Two senior scholars evaluate semifinalist applications; (4) Selection committee reviews semifinalists and chooses 25 finalists in April.

Additional benefits

  • mentorship
  • training
  • networking

Restrictions

  • no_concurrent_funding
  • employment_restrictions
  • reporting_requirements

Post-award obligations

  • final_report
  • acknowledge_funder
  • return_if_unused