About the Fellowship
The Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Humanities at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wolf Humanities Center offers a unique opportunity for early-career scholars to advance their interdisciplinary research in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Designed to support innovative work that aligns with the Center’s annual theme — for 2026–2027, this is Practice — the fellowship encourages broad, cross-disciplinary exploration that contributes to global humanities scholarship. Fellows become an integral part of Penn’s vibrant academic community, engaging with faculty and students through seminars, teaching, and public events. This prestigious programme not only fosters personal research growth but also strengthens international networks and supports the development of future academic leaders in the humanities.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: Mellon Postdoctoral Fellow in the Humanities
- Host Institution: University of Pennsylvania
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: Wolf Humanities Center, supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Research Field(s): Humanities, including interdisciplinary fields such as anthropology and history of science
- Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship (full-time)
- Level: Early-career
- Fellowship Duration: 12 months
- Expected Start Date: July 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time (as per institutional norms)
- Funding/Compensation: Minimum $67,000 stipend, $3,000 research fund, discounted single-coverage health insurance
- Required Degree/Diploma: Doctorate (PhD or DPhil)
Supported Research Fields / Areas
- Humanities (broad)
- Interdisciplinary studies
- Anthropology
- History of science
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD (or DPhil) in the humanities or allied fields.
- Degree awarded between May 2021 and August 2026.
- Open to all nationalities (international scholars may require J-1 visa).
Preferred Qualifications:
- Applicants not yet in tenure-track positions.
- Strong record of interdisciplinary research.
- Interest in engaging with Penn’s academic and public activities.
Not Eligible:
- MFA or other non-research doctorates (e.g., EdD).
- Social scientists or scholars in curriculum building.
- Performing artists (scholars of performance are eligible).
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Monthly stipend or salary: $67,000 total (minimum), paid over 12 months.
- Health insurance: Discounted single-coverage plan.
- Research allowance: $3,000.
- Visa sponsorship & relocation support: Available for international fellows.
- Professional development support: Workshops and mentorship.
- Office space and institutional resources: Provided.
- Teaching experience: One undergraduate course.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research aligned with the annual theme Practice.
- Teach one course in Penn’s College of Arts & Sciences.
- Participate in the weekly Mellon Research Seminar.
- Help plan and take part in a public symposium.
- Engage in professional development workshops and collaborate with a faculty mentor.
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit applications online via Interfolio Faculty Search.
Apply Online Here
Required Documents:
- Application form (via Interfolio).
- Curriculum vitae.
- Research plan (max 1,000 words).
- Writing sample (20–25 pages).
- Proposed course description.
- Three confidential letters of recommendation.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 9 July 2025
- Deadline: 2 November 2025, 11:59 PM Eastern Time
- Interview Period: Late January or early February 2026
- Final Results Notification: February 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: July 2026
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: University of Pennsylvania
- Official Fellowship Notification: Wolf Humanities Fellowships
- Apply Online Here: Interfolio Application Portal
📧 Contact for Queries: wolfhumanities@sas.upenn.edu
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