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Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship 2026–27 USA

The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship 2026–27 is a highly respected, fully funded academic fellowship designed for outstanding PhD students from around the world. Hosted by the Mercatus Center in the United States, this one-year fellowship honors the legacy of Nobel Laureate Elinor Ostrom by supporting interdisciplinary research in political economy, governance, institutions, and collective action.

For doctoral candidates seeking intellectual depth, international academic exposure, and mentorship from leading scholars, this fellowship offers a rare opportunity. It combines financial support, structured academic engagement, and global networking in a way few programs can match.

About the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship

The fellowship is administered by the Mercatus Center, a research institution known for advancing knowledge in political economy and institutional analysis. Inspired by Elinor Ostrom’s groundbreaking work on commons governance and collective action, the program encourages scholars to cross disciplinary boundaries and challenge conventional academic silos.

Rather than focusing solely on funding, the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship emphasizes intellectual community. Fellows participate in discussions, debates, and collaborative learning environments that deepen their research perspectives while strengthening long-term academic networks.

Fellowship Summary at a Glance

Host Country: United States of America
Host Institution: Mercatus Center
Study Level: PhD
Program Duration: One academic year (2026–2027)
Funding Type: Fully Funded
Total Financial Support: Up to USD 7,000
Application Deadline: 15 March 2026

What Makes the Elinor Ostrom Fellowship Unique?

Unlike many fellowships that focus purely on financial assistance, this program is structured around academic engagement and mentorship. Fellows are selected not only for academic excellence but also for their ability to contribute to thoughtful, interdisciplinary dialogue.

Key Highlights

Interdisciplinary focus on political economy
Intensive mentorship from experienced scholars
Three in-person academic colloquia
Global academic and professional networking
Full coverage of program-related costs

This approach ensures that fellows gain both theoretical depth and practical scholarly experience.

Financial Benefits and Coverage

The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship 2026–27 provides up to USD 7,000, designed to remove financial barriers and allow fellows to fully engage in the program.

What the Fellowship Covers

Fellowship stipend
Required academic books and reading materials
Travel costs for all three in-person colloquia
Accommodation expenses during colloquia

Although the fellowship does not replace full PhD funding, it fully supports participation in all required fellowship activities.

Academic Focus Areas

The fellowship welcomes PhD students from a wide range of disciplines, as long as their research connects meaningfully to political economy.

Relevant Fields Include

Economics
Political Science
Public Policy
Philosophy
Sociology
Law
Institutional Analysis
Governance and Collective Action

Interdisciplinary research is strongly encouraged. Applicants whose work bridges multiple disciplines often stand out during selection.

Structure of the Fellowship Program

The fellowship runs for one academic year and includes structured academic engagement centered on three in-person weekend colloquia.

The Colloquia Experience

Each colloquium brings together fellows, faculty mentors, and invited scholars. Sessions focus on:

Deep academic discussions
Peer-to-peer research feedback
Interdisciplinary problem-solving
Professional development and mentorship

These gatherings create an intellectually stimulating environment where fellows refine ideas, challenge assumptions, and expand their scholarly horizons.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship 2026–27, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Basic Requirements

Be enrolled in a PhD program during the 2026–2027 academic year
Commit to attending three in-person weekend colloquia
Demonstrate strong academic interest in political economy or related fields
Show potential for high-quality interdisciplinary research

Nationality

Open to all nationalities
No country restrictions

This global openness makes the fellowship especially competitive and internationally diverse.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare a concise but strong application package. Clarity, focus, and alignment with the fellowship’s mission are essential.

Documents Needed

Cover Letter (1–2 pages)
- Academic background
- Research interests
- Current or proposed PhD research
- How the fellowship supports your scholarly goals
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic background
- Publications (if any)
- Teaching and research experience
Short-Answer Responses
- Completed as part of the online application

Applicants should clearly articulate how their work relates to institutions, governance, and political economy.

How to Apply for the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship 2026–27

Applying for this fellowship is straightforward, but attention to detail is critical.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Review the eligibility criteria carefully
Prepare your CV and cover letter
Reflect on how your research aligns with Elinor Ostrom’s intellectual legacy
Complete the online application form on the official Mercatus Center website
Submit your application before 15 March 2026
Monitor your email for interview requests or follow-up communication

Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

Selection Process and Evaluation

The selection committee evaluates applications holistically. Academic excellence is essential, but intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary thinking are equally important.

Key Evaluation Factors

Strength and originality of research interests
Alignment with political economy and institutional analysis
Ability to contribute meaningfully to scholarly discussions
Commitment to interdisciplinary engagement

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional clarification or interviews.

Why This Fellowship Is Highly Competitive

The Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship attracts applicants from top universities worldwide. Its limited cohort size ensures high-quality engagement but also makes selection highly competitive.

Successful applicants typically demonstrate:

Clear research direction
Strong theoretical grounding
Openness to interdisciplinary dialogue
Motivation to engage beyond their primary discipline

Career and Academic Impact

Former fellows often describe the program as career-shaping. Beyond financial support, the fellowship offers long-term academic value.

Long-Term Benefits

Access to a global scholarly network
Mentorship relationships that extend beyond the fellowship year
Improved research clarity and academic confidence
Enhanced visibility within political economy research circles

These advantages make the fellowship particularly valuable for PhD students preparing for academic or policy-oriented careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship fully funded?

Yes. The fellowship provides up to USD 7,000, covering all required program costs including travel, accommodation, and academic materials.

Can students from any discipline apply?

Yes. Applicants from all PhD disciplines are welcome, provided their research connects to political economy, governance, or institutions.

Is full-time residence in the USA required?

No. Fellows only need to travel to the USA for the three in-person colloquia.

Can first-year PhD students apply?

Yes, as long as you are enrolled in a PhD program during the 2026–2027 academic year.

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Mercatus Center fellowship PhD research fellowship 2026

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Elinor Ostrom PhD Fellowship 2026–27 USA