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American Australian Association – United States Studies Centre Postdoctoral Fellowship

The United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney (USSC) is seeking two postdoctoral fellows in the humanities and social sciences to join a dynamic and multidisciplinary academic culture. The Fellowship is open to scholars working in the humanities and social sciences broadly construed, but applicants must have a research strength that aids the purpose and mission of the USSC.

The USSC is a university-based research centre, dedicated to the rigorous analysis of American politics, culture, foreign policy, and economics. The Centre is a national resource that builds Australia’s awareness of the dynamics shaping America — and critically — their implications for Australia.

Applicants

Candidates must have successfully completed their doctoral dissertation and be fewer than five years from the date of PhD conferral at the time of application.

Successful applicants will be provided an office in the Darlington campus of the University of Sydney, mentorship from a senior scholar, as well as a four-month research stipend of US$40,000. Fellows will have an opportunity to present research to their peers and collaborate in relevant teaching and research projects at the USSC.

Eligibility

  • Applicants must be an American citizen or permanent resident (dual citizens/residents are not eligible);
  • Applicants must be conducting research or studying within the fields supported;
  • Applicants must be at the postdoctoral research level;
  • Applicants will be responsible for securing the relevant visa to enter Australia and for taking out travel insurance.

The terms of the Fellowship will extend from 1 March 2025 to 1 July 2025.

Applications

Required documents:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • 1200-word research proposal (indicating your objectives for the fellowship)
  • Graduate school transcripts
  • Detailed budget outlining expenses and income throughout the year of supported study – please download and use the Graduate Education Scholarships Budget Template as a guide
  • Two referees to list in the Letter of Recommendation section. Please note: after listing, referees will be automatically contacted to complete a recommendation within the online submission form. This is not viewable to the applicant.

Applications are open from 1 August to 13 October 2024.

Dr Yancey Orr: 2024 Fellow

Dr Yancey Orr was the United States Studies Centre – American Australian Association Fellow in 2024. He is also an associate professor of environmental science at Smith College.

"During my time as a fellow, I worked with colleagues in history, literature, political science, ethnic studies, law, and statistics. In addition to the Centre, the University of Sydney’s academic community provided an environment to broaden the scale of my project as well as integrate their projects with experts in the applied fields of social science. The Centre’s network of experts in industry and policy has helped transform my work from academic insight into the real world of Australian life."

Dr Yancey Orr speaks at the Meet the Insiders event for students
Dr Yancey Orr speaks at the Meet the Insiders student event

Enquiries

Please contact Richard Burrows for more information:
richard.burrows@americanaustralian.org
Education Program Manager, American Australian Association.

The American Australian Association

The American Australian Association was founded in 1948 by Sir Keith Murdoch to promote cooperation and understanding between the institutions and people of Australia and the United States. The portfolio of scholarships, fellowships, and exchanges aim to champion progress, allowing young American and Australian leaders to pursue transformative developmental opportunities. In total, the American Australian Association has awarded more than US$17.5 million to graduates, veterans, artists, and indigenous scholars, with our alumni network now consisting of over 1100 members.