David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship Program 2021 (Funded)

The Fellowship provides support for outstanding early-career scientists from around the globe based at a United States institution to improve and expand their research skills while directing their efforts towards problems of pressing conservation concern for the United States.

The purpose of the Fellowship is to create opportunities for leading conservation scientists to strengthen their skills through two years of applied post-doctoral research, supplemented by training programs, peer networking, and field learning experiences; so that they may build productive partnerships with conservation practitioners; and contribute and communicate scientific knowledge to problems of critical importance in conservation.

The focus of Smith Fellows’ research and activities should be characterized by:

• Cutting edge research in conservation science;
• Defining frontiers and leading the future of conservation science;
• Developing the future world leaders in conservation research and application through training and mentorship;
• Building coalitions of organizations and partnerships to support conservation science;
• Supporting and encouraging high-potential individuals to accept risk as a component of change and leadership and thus make significant change in the world.

Benefits

• Each Fellow will receive an annual salary of $59,000 plus benefits, with the post-doctoral position expected to run for two consecutive years.
• In addition to the stipend, each Fellow receives a travel budget of $8,000 and a research fund of $32,000 over the 2-year fellowship period.

Eligibility

• To be eligible individuals must have completed their doctorate within the past five years or by the time the award is made in 2021 (September 2021 latest).
• Applicants who have not yet completed their doctorate must clearly indicate on the application the date the degree is expected.
• The Fellowship funders require that the Fellowship be administered by a U.S. based institution and that the research have relevance to conservation in the U.S. However, U.S. citizenship is not required.

Selection Criteria

Fellows are selected according to four criteria:

• Professional record
• Perceived potential for innovation and leadership
• Commitment to conservation, and
• The strength of their proposal.

How To Apply

All materials must be submitted electronically on the online submission platform.

Applications must include the following documents. All files should be uploaded in PDF or MS Word format:

• Cover letter
• Research plan
• Applicant’s Curriculum Vitae
• Personal Statement
• Letters
• Indirect cost and equipment waiver/Benefits rate information

Click Here To Apply

For more information, visit David H. Smith Postdoctoral Fellowship.

Application Deadline: October 2, 2020