The Center: Ailsa Mellon Bruce Senior Fellowships Grant

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery offers the Ailsa Mellon Bruce Senior Fellowships to support research in the history, theory, and criticism of visual arts. Scholars with a PhD or equivalent professional experience are encouraged to apply. Fellowships include a stipend of $50,000, office space, and access to the Gallery's extensive resources. This opportunity enhances scholarly engagement within a vibrant community dedicated to the arts.

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts is the National Gallery’s research institute.
Senior Fellowship Program
Senior fellowships provide scholars with the opportunity to conduct full-time research in residence at the Center. Fellows receive an office in the National Gallery’s East Building as well as housing, subject to availability. They have access to the notable resources of the National Gallery, including its library and art collection, as well as those of greater Washington. Fellows participate in lectures, colloquia, and discussions with the Center’s vibrant community of scholars.
The Center will award one Paul Mellon Fellowship and four to six Ailsa Mellon Bruce, Samuel H. Kress, and William C. Seitz Senior Fellowships each academic year. We also consider applications for a single academic term.
The Ailsa Mellon Bruce Senior Fellowships are intended to support support research in the history, theory, and criticism of the visual arts of any period or geographical area.
We welcome applications from scholars in any discipline whose work examines art or artifacts or has implications for the analysis, interpretation, and criticism of visual art or visual culture.
Stipend
Senior fellows receive $50,000 for the academic year. This may be paid directly to the fellow or through their institution. Senior fellows will receive an office in the National Gallery’s East Building as well as housing, as available.

Eligibility

Senior fellowships are intended for those who have held a PhD for five years or more by the application’s deadline, or who possess an equivalent record of professional accomplishment.Senior fellowships are awarded without regard to the age or nationality of applicants. Holders of senior fellowships may reapply five years after the completion of the fellowship.All fellowship applicants must have a demonstrated proficiency in two languages other than English.

Ineligibility

Individuals currently affiliated with the National Gallery of Art are not eligible for the senior fellowship program.Individuals may not apply for other Center fellowships while an application is pending or once a fellowship has been awarded. Senior fellowships may not be postponed or renewed.