Robert M. Kingdon Fellowship or Solmsen Fellowship

Through the generous bequests of Robert M. Kingdon and Friedrich and Lieselotte Solmsen, the Institute for Research in the Humanities at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is pleased to announce competitions for the Robert M. Kingdon Fellowship and the Solmsen Fellowship for the academic year 2026–2027, to be awarded to scholars from outside the University of Wisconsin–Madison. 

Kingdon Fellowships sponsor scholars working in the humanities in the historical, literary, artistic, and/or philosophical studies of Christian and/or Jewish religious traditions and their role in society. Projects may focus on any period from antiquity to the present, on any part of the world, and in any field(s) in the humanities. They may explore various forms of the Jewish and/or Christian traditions; the interaction of one or both of these with other religious traditions; and/or the relationship of one or both of these religions to other aspects of society within or outside of Europe.

Solmsen Fellowships are to be awarded to scholars working in the humanities on European history, literature, philosophy, politics, religion, art and culture in the classical, medieval, and/or early modern periods (before 1700). Projects on the relationship of pre-1700 Europe to other parts of the world are also welcome.

Kingdon and Solmsen Fellows are required to be in residence at the IRH throughout the academic year (except for short research trips, lectures, conferences, etc.) and may extend this residency through the following summer on a non-stipendiary basis. However, the fellowship may not be deferred for any reason. The award provides a stipend of $60,000, office space, limited support services, and access to university facilities (libraries). Health insurance coverage is provided for fellows receiving their award stipend via UW-Madison payroll. Fellows are expected to present their work at an Institute seminar and participate in the weekly seminars. Applicants must be in possession of the doctorate at the time of application.

Applications are due Thursday, October 23, 2025. Notification of awards will be made by early March. Scholars with projects applicable to both fellowship calls are welcome to apply to both the Kingdon and Solmsen competitions.