The James Buchanan Fellowship 2025/2026 is now accepting applications from recent PhD graduates and junior faculty members from around the world. This fully funded fellowship in the USA offers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with classical liberal ideas, expand your research, and connect with a global network of scholars.
What Is the James Buchanan Fellowship?
The James Buchanan Fellowship is a prestigious academic program administered by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. It is named in honor of James M. Buchanan, Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences and a pioneer of public choice theory, whose groundbreaking work transformed the study of political economy and constitutional governance.
The fellowship provides academic mentorship, research funding, and access to exclusive workshops and seminars in the United States. It is designed for scholars interested in the ideas of liberty, rule of law, market institutions, and governance structures.
Fellowship Overview
The James Buchanan Fellowship is a non-residential, fully funded program tailored for early-career researchers. Participants explore essential questions in political economy, engage in intellectual dialogue, and contribute to the legacy of classical liberal thought.
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Intensive seminars and colloquia
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In-depth study of foundational texts and modern research
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Interaction with senior scholars and peers
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Opportunities to present original research
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Access to the Mercatus Center’s academic resources
This program is ideal for academics working in economics, political science, law, philosophy, public policy, history, or related disciplines.
Eligibility Criteria for the James Buchanan Fellowship 2025/2026
To apply for this highly selective program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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PhD Status: Hold a PhD awarded within the last five years, or currently occupy a junior faculty position (e.g., Assistant Professor, Lecturer).
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Academic Background: Specialization in economics, political science, law, history, philosophy, or closely related fields.
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Research Focus: Demonstrated interest in political economy, institutional analysis, or schools of thought such as the Austrian, Virginia, or Bloomington traditions.
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Global Eligibility: Open to scholars of all nationalities—international applicants are welcome.
Fellowship Benefits – Fully Funded Support for Scholars
The James Buchanan Fellowship provides extensive financial and academic support, allowing scholars to focus on high-impact research without financial burden.
What’s Included:
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Stipend: A generous financial grant to support ongoing research and professional development.
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Travel and Lodging: All travel expenses, accommodation, and meals for fellowship events in the USA are fully covered.
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Academic Access: Full access to Mercatus Center resources and its global scholarly network.
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Mentorship: One-on-one mentorship from established scholars in the field.
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Publishing Opportunities: Support for developing and publishing academic work related to classical liberalism and institutional economics.
Program Components and Schedule
Fellows will attend three weekend-long colloquia throughout the academic year, hosted in Arlington, Virginia (near George Mason University). These sessions include:
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Seminar Discussions: Deep dives into classical liberal texts and theories.
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Research Presentations: Fellows and invited scholars present and critique work.
How to Apply for the James Buchanan Fellowship 2025/2026
Applications are now open for the 2025/2026 cycle. Here’s what you’ll need to submit:
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Online Application Form – Submit via the official Mercatus Center website.
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Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Updated academic résumé with details of your education, publications, and research achievements.
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Research Statement – A 500–750 word essay explaining your research interests, how they align with the fellowship, and what you aim to accomplish.
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Letter of Recommendation – One confidential letter from a mentor or academic supervisor.
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Writing Sample – An academic paper or publication that demonstrates your research quality.
Deadline to Apply: [Insert Deadline Date]
Apply at: [Insert Official Application Link]
Why You Should Apply
The James Buchanan Fellowship 2025 is more than just a funded academic opportunity. It’s a chance to join a vibrant, global network of scholars who are shaping the future of economic thought, political analysis, and constitutional theory.
Whether you’re pursuing tenure, launching a new research project, or expanding your academic portfolio, this fellowship provides the resources, community, and intellectual environment to help you thrive.