Ford Foundation Graduate Fellowships

The Office of Fellowships at the National Academies administers a diverse portfolio of fellowship programs on behalf of government agencies, private foundations, and other sponsoring organizations. These programs support scientists and policy professionals at critical stages of their careers and are designed to advance research, inform policy, and strengthen institutional capacity to accelerate scientific innovation and progress. Participants gain valuable experience, build professional networks, and make significant contributions to their fields, driving progress and discovery across a diverse range of disciplines. Through this programming, the Office of Fellowships plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of leaders in science, engineering, and medicine.

A unique aspect of the Office of Fellowships is its ability to draw on the extensive membership and volunteer network of the National Academies. This distinguished community includes some of the most respected experts and leaders in science, engineering, and medicine. By leveraging this resource, the Office of Fellowships ensures that each fellowship application undergoes a rigorous and comprehensive review process. Expert reviewers from the National Academies' network provide invaluable insights and evaluations, ensuring that sponsors receive highly qualified and thoroughly vetted awardees.

Hertz Foundation

Hertz Fellowships are awarded to graduate students pursuing a PhD in the applied physical and biological sciences, mathematics or engineering.

We do not award fellowships based on an applicant’s particular field of study; however, we do require that applicants direct their work toward understanding and solving major, near-term problems facing society. For each applicant, that could mean something different — inventing a new technology, developing a business or applying their interests in innovative ways.

All eligible applicants must:

• be enrolled as a first- or second-year PhD student in fall 2027 (when funding would begin);
• intend to pursue a full-time, in-person PhD in the applied physical and biological sciences, mathematics or engineering at an institution in the United States;
• intend to direct their studies toward understanding and solving major, near-term problems facing society; and
• be citizens or permanent residents of the United States.

Award: Up to $250,000

Deadline: October 30, 2026