Deadline: November 30, 2025
Applications are open for the Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship 2026-2027. Nuclear security is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today. The spread of nuclear weapons to unstable and hostile states, the risk of conflict between nuclear-armed nations, and the potential for terrorist groups to acquire nuclear arms all demand new thinking and creative policy solutions.
The Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship, sponsored by the Stanton Foundation, offers younger, postdoctoral scholars studying nuclear security issues the opportunity to spend twelve months at CFR’s offices in New York or Washington, DC, conducting policy-relevant research. This transformational program enables selected fellows to lead a project of their own design, conduct original research, write at least one policy-relevant document, and contribute to the Council’s work on nuclear security issues. The fellows will also be mentored by the fellows in CFR’s David Rockefeller Studies Program.
Fellowship
- The fellowship runs for twelve months, preferably beginning in September. The program will award a stipend of $101,000 for postdoctoral fellows in 2026-2027. Payment will be made in twelve equal monthly installments. Fellows are considered independent contractors rather than employees of CFR and are not eligible for employment benefits, including health insurance.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Applicants must possess a strong record of professional achievement.
- Applicants must be postdoctoral fellows.
Selection Process
Selection as a Stanton Nuclear Security Fellow is based on the following criteria:
- scholarly qualifications
- merits and feasibility of an application proposal that focuses on nuclear security issues. Appropriate potential topics include nuclear terrorism, nuclear proliferation, nuclear weapons, and nuclear force posture
Application
To apply, you will need to submit the following:
- Basic biographical, educational, and employment information
- Two letters of recommendation
- Project proposal
For more information, visit Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship.
