Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Predoctoral Fellowship Program Grant

Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Predoctoral Fellowship Program Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Smithsonian Institution (SI)
Amount: More than US $24,500
Last Updated: March 15, 2026

Summary

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Predoctoral Fellowship Program offers an enriching opportunity for graduate students in astronomy-related fields. Established in 1985, it enables students to conduct research under the guidance of experienced SAO scientists. The fellowship lasts six months or longer, with compensation starting at $42,588 annually, increasing to $49,000 from July 2024. Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time Ph.D. program and ready for dissertation research, ensuring a robust academic experience.

Overview

Since 1985, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) Pre-doctoral Program has welcomed graduate students from universities around the world interested in carrying out all or part of their research under the guidance of SAO Scientists. The Center for Astrophysics|Harvard & Smithsonian creates a rich environment for collaborations among future colleagues by bringing together over 300 SAO scientists across a broad spectrum of scientific endeavors in nearly all areas related to astronomy, including: atomic and molecular physics, geophysics and atmospheric physics, the solar system, solar physics, exoplanets, planetary systems, the interstellar medium, stars and star formation, supernovae, compact objects, galaxies, extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. Facilities include the MMT Observatory, Magellan, and other optical and infrared telescopes; radio telescopes, especially the Submillimeter Array on Mauna Kea, Hawaii; a large computational cluster and network of workstations; a number of specialized laboratories; an outstanding library system; and access to data from a wide range of space missions, especially the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Term The SAO Predoctoral Fellowship is awarded for a period of six months or more dependent on the project. It is possible to renew or extend a SAO Predoctoral Fellowship Award based on the availability of funding, satisfactory progress, and the agreement of both the home institution advisor and the SAO advisor. Compensation Stipends for the current academic year are $42,588 annually or $3,549 per month. Effective July 1, 2024, the annual stipend will be $49,000 annually. Funds may also be available for relocation, travel, and other expenses. Predoctoral Fellows are required to have health insurance and are eligible for the SAO group plan (currently Harvard Pilgrim Health Care) if their funding comes through SAO. Fellows who are self-funded may not be eligible. If the awardee has private insurance the sponsoring SAO advisor can fund a reimbursement up to the current HPHC rates. Some conditions apply. Outside dental plans cannot be reimbursed.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. All applicants must be currently enrolled in a full-time Ph.D. degree program.Additionally, applicants must have completed preliminary coursework and examinations and be ready to begin dissertation research at the time of the award. The candidate must secure the endorsement (form) and sponsorship of an SAO advisor. Permission of her/his university's department head is also required in order to be given full consideration by the Director of the SAO Predoctoral Program.Applicants in theory, observation, instrument development, or laboratory experiments at a university or college are welcomed.