The Search Institute is excited to launch its 2025 Summer Scholars Fellowship! The Fellowship is a virtual, three-month paid opportunity for doctoral students to engage in applied research. The goal of this fellowship is to broaden the pathway into applied research, especially for scholars historically under-represented in research. Scholars will receive mentorship from Search Institute researchers, engage in applied research focused on positive youth development, and translate research into relevant tools, resources, or other public-facing products. The Search Institute will fund up to four scholars in 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
- Current enrollment in a doctoral program (e.g., PhD, PsyD, EdD) in a social science field related to Search Institute’s mission (e.g., psychology, human development, education, social work, public health, or another related scientific discipline). “Current enrollment” includes doctoral students who are in their first year or later as of January 2025. Students who will not enroll in a doctoral program until the fall of 2025 are not eligible to apply.
- Strong interest in researching topics related to positive youth development (e.g., recognition and promotion of strengths) and equity (e.g., promoting equitable access to resources, relationships, and beliefs in youth’s capacity to thrive).
- Desire to use research to generate actionable knowledge (e.g., through applied and collaborative research partnerships).
Scholars from populations historically underrepresented in applied research are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Review Criteria
Applications will be reviewed based on the following criteria:
- Potential of the applicant to advance our applied understanding of youth development and equity.
- Contribution of this fellowship to the scholar’s professional development and long-term career goals.
- Alignment of the applicant’s research interests/goals with Search Institute’s mission and current portfolio of work.
Please fill out the following form. Final submissions are due by 11:59 pm PST on March 28th, 2025.
