Ohio State Presidential Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026

About the Fellowship

The Ohio State University call for application for The Presidential Postdoctoral Scholars Program (PPSP). This program offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers and creative scholars from all disciplines to advance their work within a world-class academic environment. Designed to prepare postdoctoral fellows for future faculty careers, the fellowship provides two years of salary support, research funding, and professional development opportunities. Scholars benefit from mentorship by Ohio State faculty, access to institutional resources, and interdisciplinary collaboration across one of the largest research universities in the United States. Open to both U.S. and international applicants, the PPSP reflects the university’s commitment to excellence in scholarship, innovation, and global engagement.

Fellowship / Details

Position Title: Presidential Postdoctoral Scholar
Host Institution: The Ohio State University
Administering Body / Funding Agency: Office of the President, The Ohio State University
Location: Columbus, Ohio, United States
Research Field(s): Any academic discipline across the university
Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship
Level: Early-career
Fellowship Duration: 2 years
Expected Start Date: Between July 1, 2026 and January 4, 2027
Working Hours: Full-time, as per institutional norms
Funding/Compensation: Two years of salary support, full benefits, and annual research/professional development funds
Required Degree/Diploma: Terminal degree (PhD, MFA, EdD, or equivalent)

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Main subjects: All disciplines represented at The Ohio State University

Interdisciplinary fields or specialisations eligible: Open across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, arts, and professional fields

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Terminal degree (PhD, MFA, EdD, or equivalent) awarded within two years of the nomination deadline (20 December 2025)
Applicants still completing their degree must graduate before the proposed start date
Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and international applicants

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong academic record, demonstrated research or creative achievements
Evidence of interest in pursuing a faculty career
Publication record or equivalent scholarly output
Experience in interdisciplinary or collaborative work

Not Eligible:

Candidates who earned their terminal degree before December 20, 2023

Fellowship / Job Benefits

Competitive salary for two years
Full health insurance and benefits
Annual research and professional development allowance
Access to mentoring and career development support
Institutional resources, office/lab space, and networking opportunities
Visa sponsorship and relocation support (if applicable)

Key Responsibilities

Conduct independent research or creative scholarship under the guidance of a faculty mentor
Collaborate with faculty and peers across disciplines
Contribute to publications, presentations, and academic output
Participate in professional development and career preparation activities
Engage with the broader Ohio State academic community

Application Process

How to Apply:

Identify and contact a potential Ohio State faculty mentor who agrees to nominate you
Faculty mentor must submit an intent form via the official portal
Prepare nomination materials jointly with mentor

Required Documents: