The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded, one-year program for exceptional PhD students worldwide. This fellowship provides advanced training and opportunities for scholarly engagement in political economy, emphasizing interdisciplinary research and meaningful intellectual exchange.
Hosted by the Mercatus Center, the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship honors Nobel Laureate Elinor Ostrom’s legacy, advancing research on institutions, governance, and collective action. Fellows benefit from intensive mentorship, networking, and participation in three in-person colloquia throughout the year, connecting them to a global community of scholars and long-term academic and professional networks.
Benefits
The Elinor Ostrom Fellowship provides up to USD 7,000 in total financial support, which typically covers:
- A fellowship stipend
- Required academic readings and materials
- Travel and accommodation costs for attendance at all three colloquia
This comprehensive support ensures that fellows can fully engage in the programme without financial barriers.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be enrolled in a PhD programme during the 2026–2027 academic year
- Be able to commit to travelling for and attending three weekend colloquia
- Demonstrate strong research or teaching interests related to political economy
- Applicants from all nationalities and academic disciplines are welcome, including but not limited to economics, political science, philosophy, sociology, law, and related fields
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following materials:
- A 1–2 page cover letter outlining academic background, research interests, current or proposed research projects, and how the fellowship will support their scholarly development
- A current curriculum vitae (CV)
- Responses to a set of short-answer questions as part of the online application process
Applicants are encouraged to clearly articulate how their work aligns with the themes and goals of the fellowship.
How to Apply?
- Review the eligibility criteria carefully to make sure you meet all requirements for the fellowship. It is open to PhD students from any discipline whose research aligns with political economy.
- Prepare your application materials, including a current CV, academic transcripts, a research statement, and letters of recommendation as required.
- Complete the online application form on the official Mercatus Center fellowship page, ensuring all sections are filled accurately.
- Submit your application before the stated deadline. Late applications are not accepted, so double-check the submission date.
- If selected, you may be invited for an interview or additional information request, so stay responsive and check your email regularly.
- Successful applicants will be notified and will receive instructions for participating in the fellowship, including details for the in-person colloquia and other program requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship is a one-year, fully funded program for PhD students worldwide. It provides mentorship, research support, up to $7,000 stipend, and participation in three in-person colloquia focused on political economy.
What is the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship?
The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship is a one-year program for exceptional PhD students interested in political economy. It provides mentorship, research support, and participation in three in-person colloquia to enhance scholarly engagement.
Who is eligible for the fellowship?
The fellowship is open to PhD students from any discipline worldwide. Candidates should have a strong research interest in political economy, governance, institutions, or collective action and demonstrate potential for academic excellence.
Where is the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship hosted?
The program is hosted by the Mercatus Center in the United States. Fellows engage with faculty, students, and alumni from around the world, participating in intellectual exchanges and gaining access to a global academic network.
What benefits does the fellowship provide?
Fellows receive up to $7,000 covering a stipend, required readings, and travel plus lodging for the three in-person colloquia. The program also provides mentorship, networking, and access to a community of scholars in political economy.
How long is the fellowship?
The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship lasts for one academic year. Fellows are expected to participate in three in-person colloquia and engage in mentorship, academic discussions, and collaborative learning throughout the program.
What is included in the colloquia?
Each of the three in-person colloquia is designed to foster rigorous academic discussion, collaborative learning, and networking. Fellows engage with peers and faculty, focusing on interdisciplinary research in political economy.
How can I apply for the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship?
Applicants must complete an online application including a CV, transcripts, research statement, and recommendation letters. All materials should be submitted by the stated deadline on the official fellowship page for consideration.
What disciplines are accepted?
The fellowship is open to students from any PhD discipline. Ideal candidates pursue research in political economy, governance, institutions, collective action, and related interdisciplinary topics.
Is there a stipend for living expenses?
Yes, the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship provides a stipend up to $7,000. This covers travel, lodging for the colloquia, and required readings, allowing fellows to participate fully without financial constraints.
Do fellows receive mentorship in the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship?
Yes, mentorship is a core component. Fellows work closely with experienced scholars and faculty, participating in structured guidance and networking opportunities to develop research and academic skills.
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