Call for Applications — Branco Weiss Fellowship (Society in Science)

About

The Penn postdoctoral community is invited to apply for the Branco Weiss Fellowship, an international program supporting exceptional early-career researchers pursuing bold, innovative, and high-impact projects. Fellows receive five years of independent funding and the freedom to choose any host institution worldwide that best aligns with their research vision.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Open to early-career researchers across all disciplines, including humanities and social sciences
• Applicants must have obtained their PhD within the last 5 years (see program rules)
• Proposed research must demonstrate intellectual merit, originality, and societal relevance
• Candidates must commit to at least 50% research effort during the fellowship term

Fellowship Details:

• Five-year independent research fellowship
• Fellows select their own host institution anywhere in the world
• Funding supports salary, research costs, travel, and project development
• Opportunities for global networking and interdisciplinary collaboration

Program Benefits:

• Up to Full financial support for five years
• Freedom to pursue unconventional or cross-disciplinary research
• Access to a global cohort of Branco Weiss Fellows and mentors
• Visibility and recognition through a highly selective program

Application Requirements:

• Research statement outlining the proposed project
• CV and publication list
• Letters of recommendation (as outlined on program website)
• Additional materials may be required per application guidelines

Application Deadline: Thursday, January 15, 2026.