Global Research Call: Scholars at Risk (SAR) Academic Freedom Fellowships for 2026-27
Scholars at Risk (SAR) is officially inviting early-career researchers to apply for the 2026-2027 cohort of the SAR Academic Freedom Fellowships. Supported by the Mellon Foundation, this prestigious remote program is designed to foster a global community of scholars dedicated to researching and defending higher education values.
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The fellowship is specifically structured for researchers who wish to develop new written publications, course offerings, or workshops that address the complexities of academic freedom in the modern world. With a focus on both global and US-specific issues, the program offers a unique platform for scholars to gain international exposure and network with leading experts in the field.
Quick Facts: SAR Academic Freedom Fellowships
| Feature | Details |
| Duration | 10 Months (September 2026 – June 2027) |
| Stipend | USD ~$8,000 |
| Format | 100% Remote (Online Workshops) |
| Application Deadline | 29 May 2026 (Midnight, NY Time) |
Fellowship Tracks: Global vs. US Focus
Applicants for the SAR Academic Freedom Fellowships must select one of two specialized tracks depending on the geographical and thematic focus of their research:
- Track 1: Global Mellon Academic Freedom Fellowship: This track focuses on international or comparative issues outside of the United States. SAR will award up to six fellowships for projects that explore academic freedom within a single country or through a comparative global lens.
- Track 2: US Academic Freedom Fellowship: Specifically targeting the American landscape, this track awards up to six fellowships for research into US-based academic freedom. Priority is given to themes such as university autonomy, institutional neutrality, and academic freedom within the natural sciences.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The SAR Academic Freedom Fellowships are highly competitive and aimed at scholars who have demonstrated a sustained interest in higher education values.
1. Academic Requirements:
Candidates must have received their PhD within the last eight years. While the program is primarily for post-doctoral researchers, doctoral candidates in the final stages of their dissertation may be considered if their status is clearly defined in the application.
2. Institutional Affiliation:
Applicants must maintain a current research or teaching affiliation with a higher education institution, research organization, or professional association.
3. Participation Commitment:
Successful fellows are expected to participate in monthly remote workshops and webinars. These sessions are critical for peer feedback and collaborative research outputs, such as special journal editions or edited volumes.
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Application Package Requirements
To ensure your application for the SAR Academic Freedom Fellowships is eligible for consideration, you must submit a single PDF file (saved as “LAST NAME, First Name – Project Title”) containing:
- Abstract (250-500 words): Detailing your research question, methodology, and its relevance to protecting academic freedom.
- Research Plan & Timeline: A maximum 2-page document outlining your 10-month methodology (Sept 2026 – June 2027).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A maximum 2-page CV including contact information for two professional references.
Online Form Short-Answers:
Candidates will also be required to complete an online form addressing the “End Product” of their research (e.g., a podcast, webinar, or journal article), their target audience, and their plan for dissemination.
Deadlines and Key Contact Information
- Webinar Q&A Session: 07 May 2026 at 11am ET / 3pm GMT.
- Submission Deadline: 29 May 2026.
- Decision Announcement: Early July 2026.
Inquiries: All queries regarding the SAR Academic Freedom Fellowships should be directed via email to SARfellowships@nyu.edu.
Disclaimer: The Business Pulse shares verified opportunities from trusted sources. We are not a recruiting agency and do not request any payment for applications.
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