Application guide for the Louisville Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship, detailing eligibility, requirements, and the application process for theological educators.
Scholars based in the US or Canada completing PhD/ThD by June 30, 2027; Demonstrate appreciation for the Christian church and commitment to theological education; Come from diverse fields (history, theology, social sciences, ethics, biblical studies); Aware that placements often require relocation; Previous LI Doctoral/Dissertation Fellows are eligible; preference for recent graduates
Requirements
Individuals may only apply for one LI grant or fellowship between June 1, 2026, and May 31, 2027; Previous grants must be completed with final reports submitted; Ineligible: Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary staff, faculty, Board of Trustees, students, or their immediate family; Ineligible: Louisville Institute Advisory Board members and their immediate family; May not simultaneously hold two Lilly Endowment-funded grants totaling over US$55,000
Application materials
Online application through the application portal; Recommendation letters due October 8, 2026; Provide contact information for recommenders (name, email, phone); Essays should connect vocational trajectories, doctoral program, and trends in church/theological education
How to apply
Apply online via the Louisville-Institute.org application portal; Create an online profile on the application portal; Select 'Postdoctoral Fellowship' to begin application; Submit application by 11:59 p.m. ET on October 1, 2026; Recommendation letters submitted by recommenders by October 8, 2026
Important dates
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026; Recommendation Letters Due: October 8, 2026; Awards Announced: Spring 2027; Fellowship Timeframe: Fall 2027 – Spring 2029; VTE Gatherings: Oct 2027; Feb, May, Oct 2028; Feb, May 2029
Contact
fellowships@louisville-institute.org
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