USIP's Peace Scholar Fellowship program awards non-residential fellowships to PhD candidates enrolled at U.S. universities who are writing doctoral dissertations on topics related to conflict management, peacebuilding and security studies. Since 1988, the program has supported the dissertations of 408 scholars, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers in research, higher education, and policy making.
This program partners with the Minerva Research Initiative to support additional fellowships. Currently, the program awards up to 18 fellowships per year, and awards support both research and writing stages of work on dissertations.
Applications from members of groups traditionally under-represented in the field of international relations, peace and conflict studies, security studies, and other related academic disciplines, as well as diplomacy and international policymaking, are strongly encouraged.
Eligibility Criteria
USIP seeks applications from Ph.D. candidates with high-quality, policy relevant research that will deepen understanding about conflict management, peacebuilding and other applicable security-related studies. USIP strongly prefers applications closely related to the USIP Issue Areas and/or research priorities of the Minerva Research Initiative.
Special consideration will be given to proposed research in the following areas*:
- Strategic rivalry
- Global shocks and fragility
- The American approach to peacebuilding
*See the USIP FY’24 Congressional Budget Justification for more information about the Institute’s key priorities and initiatives.
Offered Benefits
USIP funds up to 18 Peace Scholars for a 10-month, non-residential fellowship. Peace Scholars receive stipends of up to $20,000 paid directly to the individual in three tranches. Peace Scholar awards may not be deferred.
Application Process
Required Documents:
The application includes the following sections:
- A confirmation of your eligibility, must be a Ph.D. candidate enrolled at a U.S. university.
- Your personal and contact information
- Letters of recommendation
- Bibliography
- Curriculum Vitae
- Optional links to publications
