The National Academy of Education advances high-quality education research and its use in policy formation and practice. Founded in 1965, the academy comprises U.S. members and foreign associates who are elected on the basis of outstanding scholarship related to education. Since its establishment, NAEd has undertaken research studies that address pressing issues in education, which are typically conducted by members and other scholars with relevant expertise.

As part of that mission, the nonresidential NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship Program supports early-career scholars working in critical areas of education research. The program also develops the careers of its recipients through professional development activities involving National Academy of Education members.

Fellows receive $70,000 for one academic year of research, or $35,000 for each of two contiguous years, working half-time, and will be included in professional development retreats with other fellows and NAEd members. This year, the organization will award thirty fellowships to begin during the 2019-20 academic year.

The program is open to all eligible applicants regardless of race, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Applicants must have received their Ph.D., Ed.D., or equivalent research degree between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2017. In addition, all applicants should have a demonstrated record of research experience in education.

The program will begin accepting applications on August 1, 2018.

For complete program guidelines, information about a pre-recorded informational webinar, an FAQ, and application instructions, see the NAEd website.