College Scholarships for Postdoctoral Students (2025 - 2026)

Postdoctoral Scholarships and Fellowships

Postdoctoral researchers play a vital role in advancing knowledge, innovation, and discovery across every academic discipline. To support continued research and professional development, many universities, government agencies, and foundations offer postdoctoral scholarships and fellowships. These awards provide funding for research projects, travel, and living expenses, allowing scholars to deepen their expertise and contribute to their fields at a professional level.

How Can You Get Funding as a Postdoc?

To get funding as a postdoc, you can apply for fellowships, grants, or institutional funding. Popular options include the NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship, the NSF Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, and university-sponsored postdoctoral awards. Networking with faculty and identifying grant opportunities in your field is essential.

How Can You Find Postdoc Funding?

Postdoc funding can be found through national organizations like the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Department of Energy (DOE). Additionally, many universities have postdoc offices that provide information on available fellowships, and professional organizations in your discipline often list funding opportunities.

How Can You Get a Postdoc Scholarship?

To get a postdoc scholarship, research fellowships relevant to your field and prepare a strong application. Programs like the Fulbright Postdoctoral Award and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions provide scholarships for postdoctoral researchers worldwide. A compelling research proposal and strong references are critical for success.

Are There Postdoc Grants for Non-U.S. Citizens?

Yes, non-U.S. citizens can apply for grants like the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Europe), the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, and the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships (Canada). Many U.S. programs, such as NIH-funded T32 training grants, also accept international applicants.

What Is the DOE Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The DOE Postdoctoral Fellowship is offered by the U.S. Department of Energy to support early-career researchers working on energy-related topics. Examples include the Office of Science Graduate Student Research Program and fellowships at DOE national laboratories. These programs fund cutting-edge research in energy, physics, and related disciplines.

What Is the NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The NSF Postdoctoral Research Fellowship supports early-career scientists conducting independent research. Programs like the Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowship and the Earth Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship provide funding for salary, research expenses, and professional development opportunities.

Are There Postdoc Fellowships for International Students?

Yes, postdoc fellowships for international students include the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowships (Germany), and the Commonwealth Rutherford Fellowships (UK). These programs are designed to support global collaboration and research mobility.

What Is a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Education?

A postdoctoral fellowship in education provides funding for researchers studying education policy, pedagogy, or learning sciences. Programs like the AERA Research Grant and the Spencer Postdoctoral Fellowship are popular options for education-focused scholars.

What Is the NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship, or NRSA Fellowship (F32), provides funding for postdocs pursuing biomedical or behavioral research. This fellowship supports salary, training, and research expenses, and is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and select international applicants.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for the NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship?

Eligibility for the NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship typically requires applicants to have completed their PhD within the past two years. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required for most NSF fellowships, though some programs may allow exceptions for international collaborations. Strong proposals with innovative research plans are essential.