Mellon/ACLS Dissertation Innovation Fellowship 2025-2026

The Mellon/ACLS Dissertation Innovation Fellowship provides a year of support for doctoral students in the humanities and interpretive social sciences to pursue innovative dissertation research. The program aims to expand methods and formats in dissertation work and supports scholars from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. The total award includes a base stipend, plus funds for research, travel, professional development, and an external mentor stipend.

Stipend for the fellowship year, funding for research and travel, professional development funds, and a stipend for an external mentor.

Applicants must be a PhD student in a humanities or social science department in the United States and be able to devote a full year to sustained research and training during the fellowship term.

Applications must be submitted online via the ACLS portal with required proposal and supporting materials.