The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship in Political History, the Presidency, and Constitutional Thought

The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship in Political History, the Presidency, and Constitutional Thought

The George Washington Presidential Library is pleased to announce its inaugural long-term postdoctoral fellowship in the George Washington Program in Political History, the Presidency, and Constitutional Thought. Thanks to generous funding from The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, the George Washington Presidential Library can support a scholar working on a project on the Founding Era for the 2024-2025 academic year. The focus of the scholar’s research should be on any aspect of the political history, theory, law, constitutionalism, or the development of the government during the early republic. The fellowship is interdisciplinary and open to legal scholars, political scientists, historians, literary scholars, or others whose work relates to the program’s theme. Applications are open to those in the postdoctoral stage of their career.

Fellows are expected to spend their time working on a project or projects of significance. While topics need not be focused on George Washington, the projects must relate to the early republic and its political development. Those working on topics related to the Constitution and its implementation, the development of the presidency over time, and/or Washington’s terms as president are especially encouraged to apply. Applications will be evaluated based on the applicant’s needs, including the need for materials held by the Library, the need for time to write, and the overall scholarly significance of the proposed project(s). Projects may be in any stage of development, but preference will be given to those who need dedicated writing time or time to conduct extensive research using materials held at the Presidential Library.

Stipend and Benefits

The fellowship provides a stipend of $60,000 per year or $30,000 per semester if the George Washington Presidential Library decides to offer two six-month fellowships. There is an accompanying stipend of up to $10,000 allocated for health insurance ($7,500) and research funds for conferences, supplies, and other needs ($2,500).

Fellows receive additional benefits at Mount Vernon, including guaranteed housing, office space, discounts for onsite food and retail, and access to a range of events at Mount Vernon.

During their fellowship term, all resident fellows are expected to participate fully in the intellectual life of the George Washington Presidential Library, including attending public and scholarly events hosted by the Library.

Application Requirements

• CV and cover letter outlining their scholarly background, experience, and interest in this fellowship.
• Proposal describing the project(s) to be worked on during the fellowship term and expected outcomes of the time. Proposals should also include the amount of time needed, whether six months or a year. Proposals should be no more than six double-spaced pages.
• Article or chapter-length writing sample, ideally from the proposed project.

An outside review panel will review all applicants and make a recommendation for awards. The George Washington Presidential Library may also conduct interviews for finalists.