The Princeton IAS Residential Fellowships 2026 offer an unparalleled academic experience for scholars in the social sciences and related disciplines. Hosted by the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) in Princeton, New Jersey, this full-year residential program provides a unique environment for independent research, collaboration, and intellectual growth.
Applications for the 2026–27 fellowship cycle are now open. The deadline is October 15, 2025, and scholars from all nationalities are encouraged to apply.
Why Choose the IAS Princeton Fellowship?
The Institute for Advanced Study boasts a legacy of academic excellence, with renowned scholars such as Albert Einstein once walking its halls. The School of Social Science at IAS promotes deep interdisciplinary research, allowing fellows to focus fully on their work without teaching or administrative duties.
For the 2026–27 cycle, the fellowship will emphasize the theme: Emerging Forces in Global Political Economy, while applicants are welcome to propose independent research projects outside this theme.
2026–27 Fellowship Theme: Emerging Forces in Global Political Economy
Led by Prof. Benjamin Braun, a political economist at the London School of Economics, this theme explores how societies are adapting to evolving economic forces. Key research questions include:
How are multinational corporations reshaping market structures through vertical integration?
What role does venture capital play in global financial dominance?
How does China’s industrial strategy redefine international trade norms?
Can democratic institutions adapt to growing non-market influence?
This theme encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking across the social sciences.
Eligibility Criteria
The Princeton IAS Residential Fellowships welcome junior and senior researchers globally. Applicants do not need to reside in the U.S. or strictly follow the fellowship theme.
Applicants must:
Hold a PhD or have equivalent scholarly achievements
Maintain an active research agenda in social sciences or related fields
Be available for a full academic year in residence at IAS Princeton
Applicants from fields including economics, sociology, political science, history, anthropology, and global governance are especially encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Benefits
While partially funded, the fellowship offers an exceptional research environment, including:
Full-time residential status for one academic year
Access to seminars, conferences, and exclusive research events
Opportunities to interact with leading global scholars
Freedom from teaching or administrative responsibilities
Support through the Alfred Landecker Foundation and other donors
Housing, research support, and potential travel assistance are typically provided, offering a secure base for uninterrupted research.
How to Apply
The application process is competitive and requires submission through the official IAS portal. Applicants should prepare:
Research Proposal – Aligned with the theme or independent
Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Highlighting publications and achievements
Statement of Interest – Especially if linked to the theme
Letters of Recommendation – Two or three
Deadline: October 15, 2025
Apply here: IAS Fellowship Application
Why the Princeton IAS Fellowship Stands Out
The IAS offers a stimulating, distraction-free environment, granting complete academic freedom. Fellows join a prestigious global network of scholars contributing to critical debates in academia, policy, and interdisciplinary research.
Whether addressing corporate capitalism, global inequality, or alternative political economies, this fellowship provides unmatched depth, visibility, and collaborative opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The Princeton IAS Residential Fellowships 2026 are more than a research opportunity—they provide intellectual freedom, collaborative energy, and access to a world-class academic community. For scholars eager to shape the future of social science, this fellowship is a transformative step.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the Princeton IAS Fellowship?
Researchers in social sciences or related fields, both junior and senior, from any nationality.
2. Is the fellowship fully funded?
It is partially funded with housing and research support, plus potential travel assistance.
3. What is the 2026–27 theme?
Emerging Forces in Global Political Economy, led by Prof. Benjamin Braun.
4. Can I propose my own research topic?
Yes, applicants are welcome to submit independent research proposals outside the theme.
5. What is the application deadline?
October 15, 2025. All applications must be submitted online through the IAS portal.