Long-term Public Humanities Fellowships

About the Open Call

Folger Institute Long-term Public Humanities Fellowships are designed to support significant, full-time research and public humanities project implementation related to the histories, concepts, art, and objects of the early modern world (ca. 1400-1800) and its legacies. This fellowship is open to college and university faculty, independent scholars, artists, public scholars, writers, PhD candidates, postdocs, community leaders, cultural workers, educators and other knowledge holders. Applicants are not required to hold a terminal degree but should describe their equivalent training and industry-specific experience in their CV. For the 2026-27 year, the Folger Institute will offer Long-term Public Humanities Fellowships at $70,000 for a standard period of 9 months (approximately $7,777 per month). The successful applicant will draw on the strengths of the Folger’s collections, exhibitions, and programming themes to conduct research on a public humanities project. Applicants must propose and detail at least one instance of public humanities engagement to be developed and implemented in conversation with Folger Institute staff. This can include–but is not limited to–onsite or virtual programs such as readings, talks, videos, podcasts, workshops, community activations, and performances, as well as digital humanities work hosted on non-Folger platforms such as games, interactives, and online resources. Long-term public humanities fellows can take up to 3 months of their 9-month fellowship virtually. This virtual time may be taken at any point in the fellowship and does not have to be taken concurrently. Applicants may propose any research schedule that best fits their project’s needs.

What is Offered

$70,000 for a standard period of 9 months.

Requirements

Applicants must propose and detail at least one instance of public humanities engagement to be developed and implemented in conversation with Folger Institute staff. Projects must draw on the strengths of the Folger’s collections, exhibitions, and programming themes. Applicants are not required to hold a terminal degree but should describe their equivalent training and industry-specific experience in their CV. Long-term public humanities fellows can take up to 3 months of their 9-month fellowship virtually. Residential fellows are expected to follow public health guidelines in their place of origin and Washington, DC, and comply with the Folger’s COVID-19 Safety Protocols. Qualifying COVID-19 vaccinations are required.

How to Apply

The application portal for Long-term Public Humanities Fellowships is now open. All applications must be completed and submitted through our online portal. Applicants must submit: 1. A 250-word abstract of your project. 2. A 1,500-word description of the project you propose to work on while in residence at the Folger, emphasizing impact, relevance, originality, feasibility, and detailed descriptions and timelines of four public humanities programs. Include a statement for virtual fellowship time if applicable. 3. A two-page CV. 4. A one- to two-page list of relevant Folger primary sources and rare materials to consult onsite. 5. One letter of recommendation. Optional: portfolio materials or a link to an online portfolio relevant to the proposed project.