George Mason University’s Mercatus Center proudly announces the Adam Smith Fellowship, a one-year program designed to nurture and empower exceptional doctoral students from any university and discipline who are passionate about political economy. This prestigious fellowship aims to cultivate a new generation of scholars equipped to address contemporary policy challenges and contribute to global economic prosperity.
The Adam Smith Fellowship is a co-sponsored program of the Mercatus Center and Liberty Fund, Inc. Adam Smith Fellowships are awarded to graduate students attending Ph.D. programs at any university and in any discipline, including but not limited to economics, philosophy, political science, and sociology. These fellowships aim to introduce students to and encourage them to critically engage key thinkers in political economy that they might not otherwise encounter during their graduate studies. As such, Adam Smith Fellows spend three weekends during the academic year and one week during the summer participating in workshops and seminars on the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy. Fellows will join a network of Mercatus students, alumni, and scholars conducting and engaging with cutting-edge research in contemporary political economy.
The Adam Smith Fellowship offers a transformative intellectual journey, immersing fellows in a stimulating environment of critical inquiry and rigorous academic exploration. Throughout the fellowship, you will delve into the intricacies of Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the forces that shape economic systems and influence human behavior. Your research endeavors will focus on applying these theoretical frameworks to real-world issues, shedding light on critical questions facing societies around the globe.
Under the guidance of renowned faculty members, you will refine your research methodologies, develop your analytical skills, and hone your ability to communicate complex economic ideas clearly and engagingly. Beyond academic pursuits, the Adam Smith Fellowship provides a holistic learning experience that equips you with essential skills for a successful academic or policy career. You will participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences, expanding your professional network and enhancing your expertise in communication, presentation, and research methodologies. The Mercatus Center is committed to fostering a vibrant community of scholars, researchers, and policy experts, and the Adam Smith Fellowship stands as a testament to this commitment.
Location:
United StatesBenefits
1. Financial Support: Fellows receive a substantial stipend of up to $10,000, providing them with the financial freedom to focus on their research and academic pursuits without financial constraints.
2. Immersive Research Environment: The fellowship provides fellows with access to the Mercatus Center’s world-class research resources, including its extensive library, databases, and research facilities. This immersive environment encourages fellows to delve deep into their research questions and produce groundbreaking work.
3. Mentorship from Renowned Faculty: Fellows are paired with renowned faculty mentors who are experts in their fields. These mentors provide invaluable guidance, support, and feedback throughout the fellowship, helping fellows refine their research methodologies and excel in their academic endeavors.
4. Collaborative Learning Opportunities: The fellowship fosters a collaborative learning environment where fellows engage in intellectual discourse, share ideas, and learn from one another. This exchange of perspectives enriches their understanding of political economy and broadens their horizons.
5. Professional Development Workshops: Fellows participate in workshops and seminars designed to enhance their professional skills, including communication, presentation, and research dissemination strategies. These workshops prepare them for successful careers in academia, the policy arena, or other professional settings.
6. Networking Opportunities: The fellowship provides fellows with ample opportunities to network with a diverse range of scholars, researchers, and policymakers. This exposure to the broader field of political economy expands their professional networks and opens doors to future collaborations.
7. Conference and Travel Support: Fellows receive support to attend conferences and workshops, allowing them to present their research, exchange ideas with peers, and stay abreast of the latest developments in their fields.
8. Publication Opportunities: The fellowship encourages fellows to submit their research papers for publication in leading academic journals. This opportunity enhances their academic reputation and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in political economy.
Eligibilities
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Enrollment in a PhD program: Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD program in any university and any discipline.
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Research interest in political economy: Applicants must have a strong research interest in political economy, particularly in the areas of Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of thought.
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Demonstrated academic excellence: Applicants must have a demonstrated record of academic excellence, with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
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Clear research agenda: Applicants must have a clear research agenda and potential for success in their chosen field of study.
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Proficiency in English: Applicants must be proficient in English, both written and spoken.
Application Process
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Review Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the program’s eligibility criteria, including being a doctoral student from any university and discipline with a strong interest in political economy.
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Prepare Application Materials: Gather the required application materials, including a completed online application form, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended, and GRE or GMAT scores (if applicable).
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Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Write a well-structured personal statement that highlights your academic achievements, research interests, career aspirations, and reasons for pursuing the Adam Smith Fellowship.
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Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from professors or academic advisors who are familiar with your work and can attest to your academic strengths and research potential.
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Submit Application by Deadline: Complete the online application form and submit all required materials by the application deadline.
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Attend Interview (if Invited): If shortlisted, you will be invited to attend an interview with a faculty committee. Prepare for the interview by researching the fellowship program and the Mercatus Center, practicing your answers to common interview questions, and demonstrating your knowledge and enthusiasm for the program.
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Await Fellowship Decision: The fellowship decisions will be announced by the specified date. If you are selected, you will receive an official notification and will be required to accept the fellowship offer within a stipulated timeframe.
Application Deadline: March 15, 2024
Application ClosedOfficial link
