For recent PhD graduates in economics, political science, law, or related fields, the James Buchanan Fellowship at the Mercatus Center is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after programs. Named after Nobel laureate James M. Buchanan, the fellowship gives emerging scholars the chance to deepen their understanding of political economy and institutional analysis while connecting with a global network of peers and experts.
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James Buchanan Fellowship Summary
| Host Country | USA |
| Host Institute | Mercatus Center at George Mason University |
| Eligible Nationalities | All |
| Degree Level | PhD within the last six years |
| Fellowship Duration | 1 Year |
| Deadline | 15 April 2026 |
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What Makes the Fellowship Valuable
The program is more than just funding. Fellows receive:
- A stipend of up to $8,000 to support research and professional development.
- Travel and lodging coverage for in-person gatherings at George Mason University.
- Access to structured readings and discussions on the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy.
- Networking opportunities with senior scholars and fellow researchers.
These benefits make the fellowship a launchpad for careers in academia, policy research, and think tanks worldwide.
Program Structure
The fellowship is designed for active engagement rather than passive learning:
- Two in-person colloquia at George Mason University, including lectures, discussions, and networking events.
- Virtual meetings throughout the year to maintain momentum and collaboration.
- Reading groups and discussions that challenge participants to connect theory with real-world issues.
This structure encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and long-term professional connections.
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Who Can Apply
Eligibility is straightforward but specific:
- PhD completed within the last six years.
- A current or planned position at a university or research organization.
- Commitment to participate fully in all sessions, both in-person and virtual.
- Research interests aligned with political economy and institutional analysis.
The fellowship welcomes scholars from any country and from multiple disciplines, as long as their work engages with political and economic institutions.
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Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- A cover letter outlining research interests, goals, and familiarity with political economy.
- A CV highlighting academic background and achievements.
- A list of publications, if applicable.
- Answers to short application questions are provided on the Mercatus Center website.
How to Apply for the James Buchanan Fellowship
Applications are submitted online via the Mercatus Center’s fellowship page. The program typically announces decisions 10–12 weeks after the application deadline, and it is highly competitive, so a thoughtful and thorough application is crucial.
For scholars seeking mentorship, rigorous discussion, and professional growth, the James Buchanan Fellowship provides an unmatched opportunity. Beyond the stipend and resources, it offers access to a community of thinkers who are shaping the future of political economy.
By combining in-depth learning with networking and career development, this fellowship is more than a program it’s a stepping stone for the next generation of scholars and policy experts.
