The Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship a component of the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, provides an opportunity for a Fulbright visiting scholar to connect with National Archives and Record Administration (NARA) scientists and experts while conducting research at the National Archives and Record Administration’s Heritage Science Research and Testing Laboratory (Testing Lab) in College Park, Maryland. This fellowship is made possible through a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and the National Archives and Records Administration. The award has been established to support archival science education, conservation, and research. Grant is awarded for 5 to 12 months in the academic year 2024/2025. The earlierst start date is September 2024.
Strong applicants will be emerging or established experts in scientific and technical fields relevant to heritage preservation and conservation, with projects that align with the work and goals of the NARA and Testing Lab. Current project interests include:
A modest stipend to cover living expenses will be provided
International economy class airfare via the most direct route from home of the grantee to the authorized destination in the U.S.
J-1 visa sponsorship for the grantee and J-2 visa sponsorship for dependents
Dependents allowance depending on the number of dependents
One-time professional and settling in allowance
Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges covering basic healthcare (supplemental private insurance highly recommended)
The Commission helps the grantees prepare for their stay in the U.S. while the Institute of International Education (IIE) provides on-going support over the course of the grant
Candidate must submit an online application. There is no need to send any documents to the Commission.
Application must include: CV, Project Statement, 3 Reference Letters, Letter of Support from the applicant’s Home Institution.
The application form is designed for the whole Fulbright Program worldwide. For specific instruction for this award, please read more information on the website dedicated to The Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship
Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship Application Form AY 2024/25The application period is open from June to October. Candidates should bear in mind that they need to submit their application approximately one year prior to the start of their grant period. Deadline for submission of application for academic year 2024/2025 is October 15, 2023. Incomplete applications or applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Application cycle is open.
Deadline for submissions of applications.
Applications are reviewed by NARA and IIE.
Applications are reviewed by the Commission.
Candidates are informed of the results of the selection. Selected candidates are notified of the official approval by the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FFSB).
Grant documents are issued. Administrative steps to process visa applications and departure for the U.S. are taken, if the grant starts in the fall semester.*
Pre-Departure Orientation is hosted by the Fulbright Commission.
Visa interviews are conducted for grantees who depart for the U.S. and start their Fulbright grant in the fall.
* If the grant starts in the spring semester, administrative steps to process visa applications and departure for the U.S. are taken between September and December, and visa interviews are conducted between December and January.
Here is a list of FAQ. If you have further questions to which you cannot find answer below, please see The Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship website or contact Susan Muendl.
I am a Slovak citizen but I work abroad. Can I apply?
Yes, you can. However, preference may be given to candidates living and working in Slovakia.
I am not a Slovak citizen but I am affiliated with a Slovak institution. Can I apply?
Foreign nationals need to check with their home country Fulbright Commissions/U.S. Embassy if Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is open to apply for this award.
Does the Fulbright Commission arrange for a leave of absence at the home institution?
It is the sole responsibility of the candidate to make sure that they are free to accept a grant and obtain any necessary leave of absence and make other required arrangements to enable them to accept a grant. The awarding of a grant does not constitute endorsement by the Board or the Commission of a leave of absence for the grantee.
Can family members travel to the U.S. with me?
Yes, if they qualify as a dependent – a spouse, or a child who is financially dependent upon a grantee and as long as any such child’s age does not exceed 21 years.
Do I need to include a TOEFL or other English language certificate with my application?
It is not a requirement for the scholar program but you can include it, if you have one.
Is there an age limit for Scholar Program?
No, there is not. Candidates are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, status as a parent, protected genetic information, or sexual orientation. However, it is expected that the grantee return to their home institution and be professionally active for at least 5 more years.
Can I reapply for the Scholar Program should I not be successful?
Candidates who were not successful are welcome to reapply when the next application cycle opens as long as they meet all eligibility criteria.