Summer Dissertation Fellows

Congratulations to our Summer 2024 Fellows:

A list of previous Summer Dissertation Fellows can be found here.

Summer Dissertation Fellow Program Information

As of Summer 2024, the Summer Dissertation Fellow designation is offered to six doctoral students, two each in the categories of Humanities, Social Sciences, and STEM.  This program provides a reserved spot in the week-long intensive Dissertation Writing Lab, a $400 scholarship, and participation in a weekly writing support group throughout the summer.

To be considered, students must submit a letter of application and a letter of support from either their dissertation advisor or Graduate Program Director.  

Eligibility

Applications are invited from doctoral candidates who meet the following criteria:

• Will be actively writing during the summer months (past the stage of extended periods of research or data collection)
• Already have or will have an approved proposal/prospectus by April 15.
• Anticipate defending their dissertation within the following twelve months
• Able to commit to all program requirements (see below)

Program Requirements

Students who accept a position as a Summer Dissertation Fellow must commit to the following activities:

• Participate in the Graduate School’s week-long Dissertation Writing Lab (May 19-23, 2025)
• Commit to weekly meetings of a writing group with the other Fellows (can be virtual)
• Enroll for at least one dissertation hour

Application Process

Through the link below, upload your application letter and include the following information (this should all be uploaded as a single PDF document): 

• The title and topic of your dissertation
• A description of the dissertation and progress completed at the time of application
• A copy of your approved prospectus
• A statement of the impact of your dissertation research in your field and on society
• Your work plan for completing the dissertation

Applicants should also request a letter of support from either their dissertation advisor or Graduate Program Director. At the time you submit your application letter through the link below, be prepared to include the email address of your recommender. Your recommender will receive a link to upload their letter of support for your application. 

The application for the 2025 Summer Dissertation Fellows program will open in January 2025 with a deadline of Friday, February 28.  Selections will be announced the week of March 17.