Applying
Who can apply?
We invite applications from scholars at any level, working in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts. Advanced graduate students may apply, but must have the Ph.D. in hand by the start date of their fellowship term.
What is required to apply?
- An online application form
- A research proposal (less than 1000 words)
- A current curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation
What are the visa requirements for fellows from abroad?
International scholars are appointed under a J-1 visa only (Research Scholar status). No exceptions can be made, and the Katz Center reserves the right to cancel awards if the recipient is unable to meet this condition. Applicants should consult the international programs office at their current universities to confirm eligibility before applying for this fellowship.
Can I apply for just one semester?
Yes, applicants can apply for a full year fellowship (September–April), a fall term fellowship (September–December), or a spring term fellowship (January–April). On the online application form, applicants can indicate all terms in which they are interested.
When will decisions be announced?
In the spring.
Fellowship Details and Requirements
What are the criteria for selection?
The Center’s goal is to support outstanding scholarship and individual research, while at the same time developing an intellectually diverse and engaged scholarly community. The ideal applicant will be one willing to learn from and work with scholars from other disciplines, historical periods, and levels of seniority. The fellowship is not designed for individuals who wish only to do their own work.
What does the Katz Center provide to fellows?
Most importantly, we provide the time and resources for fellows to complete their research projects. Each fellow will be provided with an office at the Center, a computer, printing, copying, and scanning capabilities; some administrative assistance; and access to our library and all libraries within the University of Pennsylvania Library system.
What does the Katz Center require of fellows?
The Katz Center requires residency in Philadelphia or nearby, one seminar presentation, and full participation in weekly lunches and seminars, as well as fellow-conceived colloquia and symposia, among other events. We require fellows to be working at the Center during standard hours for a minimum of four days per week with the exception of university, Jewish, and national holidays.
What other opportunities does the fellowship offer?
Fellows are encouraged to initiate their own ideas for how to promote intellectual and social interaction and the Center attempts to provide a forum for these endeavors whenever possible. For those interested, we offer numerous opportunities for public programming and sharing research with the wider community. Katz Center fellows also benefit from interactions with University of Pennsylvania and other local and regional faculty members.
Stipend
How is the stipend calculated?
Stipends are $60,000 for the academic year.
What else is included in the stipend offer?
The Center provides single-coverage health insurance (fellows are responsible for coverage for any dependents). A modest one-time travel reimbursement is also provided to aid in fellows’ relocation to Philadelphia.
Residency and Accommodations
Are fellows required to be in residence?
Yes, fellows are expected to be in residence at the Katz Center in Philadelphia at least four days per week between Monday and Friday.
Does the Katz Center provide housing?
The Center does not provide housing and it is not included in the fellowship stipend. Should you receive a fellowship, we are available to assist you in your housing search, though you are ultimately responsible for securing your own accommodations.
For any other questions, please contact our fellowship coordinator Marci Seder at sederm@upenn.edu.
