Discover Funding Opportunities

The American Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship increases the number of women in research, development, and academic leadership, and promotes gender equity in higher education by providing funding to women in academia to pursue independent research over the course of a year. The American Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship supports early-career postdoctoral scholars – within four years of receiving their Ph.D. – including both new applicants and AAUW alumnae. The fellowship is open to applicants in all fields of study, though those engaged in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, or those researching gender issues, are especially encouraged to apply. Established in 1888, AAUW American Fellowships are the oldest non-institutional source of graduate and postdoctoral funding for women in the United States. The fellowship carries a stipend of $50,000 payable to fellows only and disbursed in two equal payments at the beginning and the midpoint of the fellowship term. Fellows are required to devote 100% of their working time and intellectual effort to their research during the fellowship year. Fellowship awards may be used for research expenses and publication fees, as well as housing, food, and other living expenses including childcare. Selection is based on scholarly excellence, originality of research design, feasibility of research plans, teaching experience, and demonstrated commitment to helping women and girls through service in their communities, professions, or fields of research. Preference is given to applicants pursuing postdoctoral studies in STEM fields or researching gender issues, as well as those who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming life challenges, first-generation bachelor's degree recipients, and those from single parent households.

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.