Hoover Fellows Program 2026–2027

The Hoover Fellows Program 2026–2027 is a funded research fellowship for outstanding early-career scholars whose work has significant implications for public policy. Hosted by the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, the program provides fellows with the opportunity to pursue independent research while contributing to one of the world's leading policy research institutions.

The fellowship is designed for researchers who have recently completed, or are about to complete, a Ph.D. in fields related to economics, history, political science, international relations, public policy, national security, and other relevant disciplines. Fellows will join the Hoover Institution's scholarly community in Stanford, California, where they will conduct research, publish scholarly work, and engage with experts from both the Hoover Institution and Stanford University.

About the Hoover Fellows Program

The Hoover Institution is one of the world's leading public policy research centers. Located on the campus of Stanford University, it supports research that promotes economic prosperity, democratic governance, and national security. The Hoover Fellows Program was established to attract exceptional early-career scholars whose research can contribute to important public policy discussions.

During the fellowship, participants are expected to pursue original research while actively contributing to the intellectual life of the institution. Fellows work independently on scholarly projects, publish research articles and books, participate in seminars, and collaborate with leading academics and policy experts.

The fellowship offers an environment where scholars can refine their research in a setting that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration. Although fellows are based at the Hoover Institution, they are also encouraged to engage with Stanford University's wider academic community through seminars, workshops, conferences, and collaborative research opportunities.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive a highly competitive compensation package together with access to world-class research resources.

Benefits include:

• Annual base salary ranging from USD 169,950 to USD 230,000.
• Annual housing allowance of USD 20,000.
• Appointment for one to three years.
• Full-time research position with no teaching responsibilities.
• Access to Hoover Institution research resources.
• Opportunity to collaborate with leading scholars and policy experts.
• Access to Stanford University's broader academic community.
• Professional development through seminars, workshops, and conferences.
• Opportunity to publish policy-relevant research and scholarly books.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Ph.D. or an equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant discipline.
• Candidates who expect to complete their doctoral degree by September 1, 2027, are also eligible.
• Demonstrate outstanding research achievements and strong academic potential.
• Conduct research relevant to public policy.
• Show the ability to contribute to the Hoover Institution's scholarly community.

Relevant fields include:

• Economics
• History
• Political Science
• International Relations
• National Security
• Public Policy
• Related disciplines with strong public policy relevance.

Available Areas Of Study

Applicants may come from a variety of academic disciplines, including:

• Economics
• Public Policy
• Political Science
• History
• International Relations
• National Security
• Government
• Public Administration
• Law
• Sociology
• Development Studies
• International Affairs
• Other closely related disciplines with public policy applications.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:

• Cover letter or statement of interest.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• One or more recent publications, working papers, or draft book chapters.
• Research statement outlining future research plans (maximum two pages).
• Three letters of recommendation addressing the applicant's research accomplishments and future potential.

Applicants should ensure that all supporting documents are submitted before the application deadline.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Academic excellence.
• Quality of previous research.
• Originality of proposed research.
• Relevance of research to public policy.
• Publication record.
• Research potential.
• Strength of recommendation letters.
• Ability to contribute to the Hoover Institution's academic community.

Successful applicants will demonstrate the ability to produce high-quality research with practical policy relevance while actively participating in the institution's scholarly activities.

How To Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Hoover Fellows Program application portal.
2. Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
3. Prepare all required application documents.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Upload all supporting documents.
6. Arrange for three recommendation letters to be submitted.
7. Review your application before submission.
8. Submit your application before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process early, as obtaining recommendation letters and preparing research materials may require additional time.