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Open Call for James Buchanan Fellowship Program

Deadline: 15-Apr-2026

The Mercatus Center’s James Buchanan Fellowship Program offers early-career scholars up to $8,000 to engage with the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy. Fellows participate in in-person colloquia at George Mason University, virtual sessions, and networking activities to explore economic, political, and social coordination and institutional foundations. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are due April 15, 2026.

Overview

The James Buchanan Fellowship Program is designed to introduce early-career scholars to the intellectual traditions of the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy, alongside contemporary applications of these ideas in social sciences. The program emphasizes critical engagement with the works of Adam Smith and other classical and modern theorists, focusing on economic, political, and social coordination and institutional foundations.

Funding and Award Details

  • Total Award: Up to $8,000

  • Coverage Includes:

    • Stipend

    • Required reading materials

    • Travel and lodging for participation in required colloquia

  • Academic Year: 2026–2027

  • Application Deadline: April 15, 2026

  • Decision Timeline: Approximately 10–12 weeks after the deadline

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Have completed a doctoral degree within the last six years

  • Hold an academic or research position at an accredited university or research organization

  • Be able to commit to attending two in-person colloquia and three days of virtual programming during the academic year

  • Scholars from any country are eligible

Program Structure and Expectations

  • Two Weekend Residencies: Held at George Mason University with lectures, discussions, formal meals, and academic exchanges

  • Virtual Programming: Three days of online sessions focused on mainline political economy

  • Academic Engagement: Participation in all scheduled academic sessions, meals, and related activities

  • Networking: Fellows join a scholarly network connected to the Mercatus Center and may be eligible for additional conference and research funding

  • Travel Support: Academic travel expenses related to the colloquia may be reimbursed; fellows must verify eligibility for funding and any applicable taxes

How to Apply / How It Works

  1. Prepare Application Materials:

    • One- to two-page cover letter outlining academic background, career goals, research interests, familiarity with relevant schools of political economy, and expectations from the program

    • Current CV

    • List of recent academic publications (if available)

    • Responses to short-answer questions provided in the online form

  2. Submit Application Online: Complete all sections of the online application form by April 15, 2026

  3. Assessment: Applications are evaluated based on academic merit, research experience, alignment with the fellowship’s focus on political economy, and potential for scholarly engagement

  4. Notification: Successful applicants are informed approximately 10–12 weeks after the application deadline

  5. Participation: Fellows attend two in-person colloquia and engage in virtual discussions, becoming part of the broader Mercatus scholarly network

Tips for a Strong Application:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of Austrian, Virginia, or Bloomington schools of political economy

  • Highlight research achievements and publications

  • Clearly state goals and expectations from the fellowship

  • Show commitment to academic participation and networking

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the April 15, 2026 deadline

  • Submitting incomplete application materials

  • Failing to demonstrate knowledge or interest in the relevant schools of political economy

  • Underestimating the time commitment for in-person and virtual sessions

  • Omitting a clear research focus or career goals in the cover letter

Why This Fellowship Matters

The James Buchanan Fellowship Program provides early-career scholars with exposure to classical and contemporary political economy ideas, fostering academic development, research collaboration, and professional networking. Fellows gain in-depth understanding of institutional and social coordination issues while connecting with a global community of scholars and thought leaders.

FAQ – James Buchanan Fellowship Program

1. What is the total award amount? Up to $8,000, including stipend, materials, and travel/lodging.
2. Who can apply? Early-career scholars with a doctoral degree completed within the last six years, holding an academic or research position.
3. Are international applicants eligible? Yes, scholars from any country may apply.
4. What is the application deadline? April 15, 2026.
5. What does participation involve? Two in-person weekend colloquia at George Mason University and three days of virtual programming.
6. Are travel expenses covered? Eligible academic travel expenses may be reimbursed; fellows are responsible for verifying funding eligibility and taxes.
7. What materials are required for application? Cover letter, CV, list of publications, and responses to short-answer questions via the online form.

Conclusion

The Mercatus Center’s James Buchanan Fellowship Program equips early-career scholars with critical insights into political economy, offering opportunities for intensive academic engagement, networking, and professional development. By participating, fellows strengthen their research expertise, contribute to scholarly discourse, and join a global network of experts in economic and institutional studies.

For more information, visit Mercatus Center.