George Mason University’s Mercatus Center proudly announces the Don Lavoie Fellowship, a one-year program designed to cultivate the next generation of economic scholars with a deep passion for Austrian economics. This prestigious fellowship aims to foster a community of intellectually curious individuals dedicated to exploring the principles of individual liberty, market processes, and economic freedom. The Don Lavoie Fellowship offers an immersive learning experience that delves into the intricacies of Austrian economics, encompassing its historical foundations, theoretical underpinnings, and contemporary applications. Fellows will engage in rigorous academic discourse, guided by renowned faculty mentors who are experts in their fields.
Throughout the fellowship, fellows will delve into the works of prominent Austrian economists such as Carl Menger, Eugen von Böhm-Bawerk, Friedrich Hayek, and Ludwig von Mises, gaining a comprehensive understanding of their contributions to economic thought. They will critically examine the Austrian school’s perspectives on monetary theory, business cycles, economic growth, and the role of government in society. Beyond theoretical exploration, the Don Lavoie Fellowship provides fellows with the opportunity to apply Austrian economic principles to real-world challenges. They will participate in research projects, seminars, and workshops, honing their analytical skills and developing the ability to communicate complex economic ideas in a clear and engaging manner.
The Mercatus Center is committed to fostering a vibrant intellectual community where fellows can exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and refine their understanding of Austrian economics. Through interactions with fellow scholars, faculty mentors, and Mercatus Center staff, fellows will expand their professional networks and gain valuable insights into the field of economics. The Don Lavoie Fellowship is a competitive, renewable, and online fellowship program for advanced undergraduates, recent graduates, and early-stage graduate students. Fellowships are open to students from any discipline who are interested in studying key ideas in political economy and learning how to utilize these ideas in academic and policy research. Don Lavoie Fellows attend a series of online activities, including an online discussion portal and online reading discussion sessions led by various Hayek Program scholars that introduce them to key ideas in the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy as well as contemporary work in this tradition. Fellows will join a network of Mercatus students, alumni, faculty, and scholars conducting and engaging with cutting-edge research in contemporary political economy.
Location:
United StatesBenefits
- 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.
- 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.
- Mentorship from Renowned Faculty: Fellows are paired with renowned faculty mentors who are experts in Austrian economics. These mentors provide invaluable guidance, support, and feedback throughout the fellowship, helping fellows refine their research methodologies and excel in their academic endeavors.
- 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 Austrian economics and broadens their horizons.
- 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.
- 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 economics expands their professional networks and opens doors to future collaborations.
- 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 Austrian economics.
- Publication Opportunities: The fellowship encourages fellows to submit their research papers for publication in leading Austrian economics journals. This opportunity enhances their academic reputation and contributes to the advancement of Austrian economic thought.
Eligibilities
- Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD program in economics, economics of regulation, or political economy at an accredited university.
- Applicants must have completed all coursework for their PhD program and be ABD (all but dissertation).
- Applicants must have a strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in Austrian economics and a commitment to applying its principles to real-world problems.
- Applicants must have a clear research agenda and potential for success in their chosen field of study.
- Applicants must be proficient in English.
Application Process
Click on “Apply” button and fill in the application form including:
- A 1-2 page cover letter explaining:
- your graduate school career to date,
- your research interests and current projects,
- your familiarity with the thinkers associated with the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy, and
- what you hope to get out of the program.
- A current resume/CV
- A few short answer questions
- Two short essays
Application Deadline: March 15, 2024
Application ClosedOfficial link
