Hoover Postdoctoral Fellowship at Stanford University

About the Fellowship

The Hoover Institution Postdoctoral Fellowship at Stanford University offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career scholars to pursue independent, policy-relevant research within a globally renowned academic environment. This prestigious five-year fellowship supports outstanding researchers in economics, history, political science, international relations, national security, and public policy, empowering them to produce influential work that shapes public debate and policy innovation. Fellows will have full access to Stanford’s interdisciplinary research community, world-class resources, and opportunities for collaboration across disciplines. With no teaching obligations, the fellowship allows scholars to dedicate their time entirely to impactful research, publication, and intellectual engagement that align with the Hoover Institution’s mission to advance ideas promoting freedom and prosperity.

Fellowship / Details

Position Title: Hoover Fellow
Host Institution: Hoover Institution, Stanford University
Administering Body / Funding Agency: Stanford University
Location: Stanford, California, USA
Research Field(s): Economics, History, Political Science, International Relations, National Security, Public Policy
Fellowship Type: Full-time Postdoctoral Fellowship
Level: Early-career
Fellowship Duration: Five years (renewable for one additional term)
Expected Start Date: September 2026
Working Hours: Full-time, as per Stanford University norms
Funding/Compensation: Annual base salary between USD 165,000 and USD 230,000, plus a USD 20,000 annual housing allowance
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD or equivalent degree (to be completed by 1 September 2026)

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Main Disciplines:

Economics
Political Science
History
International Relations
Public Policy
National Security Studies

Interdisciplinary Fields:

Policy Analysis
Governance
Strategic Studies
Socioeconomic Development

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD or equivalent degree in a relevant field such as economics, political science, history, international relations, national security, or public policy
Degree must be completed by 1 September 2026
Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and policy-relevant research

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong publication record or promising working papers
Experience in interdisciplinary or international research collaboration
Proven potential to contribute to the intellectual life of the Hoover Institution

Not Eligible:

Applicants without a completed PhD by September 2026

Fellowship / Job Benefits

Annual salary: USD 165,000–230,000 (12-month base)
Housing allowance: USD 20,000 per year
Comprehensive health and insurance benefits
Research allowance and institutional support
Office and research facilities at the Hoover Institution
Opportunities for collaboration within Stanford University’s broader academic community

Key Responsibilities

Conduct independent and collaborative research aligned with the Hoover Institution’s mission
Publish scholarly articles, working papers, and books with policy implications
Participate actively in the intellectual life and research seminars of the Institution
Engage with broader academic and policy communities through conferences and public events

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit a complete application online through the official Stanford University portal
Attach all required documents listed below
Ensure submission by 18 November 2025

Required Documents:

Cover letter or statement of interest describing academic background and experience
One or more recent publications, working papers, or book chapters
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of future research plans (maximum two pages)
Three letters of recommendation focusing on research achievements and potential