The Carl Menger Fellowship is a competitive academic fellowship for doctoral students with a strong interest in political economy. This fellowship, hosted by the Mercatus Centre, supports PhD candidates from a wide range of disciplines who want to deepen their understanding of how public institutions operate. The program combines structured learning, peer engagement, and financial support over a full academic year.
About the Carl Menger Fellowship
The Carl Menger Fellowship focuses on strengthening the intellectual foundations of emerging scholars in political economy and related social sciences. The fellowship introduces participants to core texts and debates connected to the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington traditions of political economy.
Fellows participate in monthly online colloquia that foster critical thinking, open discussion, and rigorous engagement with economic and institutional ideas. The program places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, connecting economics and political science.
Furthermore, those with a background in history, philosophy, and law can apply. Through sustained interaction with peers and mentors, fellows build analytical skills that support high-quality academic research and long-term professional development.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: $2,250
- Maximum award: $2,250 with full coverage of program participation and required readings
- Project duration supported: One Year
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Who Can Apply for the Carl Menger Fellowship
Eligible organisation types
- Individual PhD students enrolled in accredited universities
- Doctoral candidates from any academic discipline
- Early-stage researchers pursuing academic careers
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of current doctoral enrollment
- Academic transcripts from relevant institutions
- Curriculum vitae outlining academic background
Project focus requirements
- Clear interest in political economy or institutional analysis
- Engagement with economic ideas and public policy questions
- Willingness to participate actively in academic discussions
Geographic eligibility
- Open to applicants from all countries
- International doctoral candidates are welcome
- Ability to join scheduled online sessions
Sector or thematic focus
- Political economy and economic thought
- Public policy and institutional studies
- Interdisciplinary social science research
Application Process
- Applicants complete the official fellowship application form
- Candidates provide academic and personal background details
- Selected applicants may undergo additional review or discussion
- Final decisions are made based on merit and thematic alignment
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement describing research interests and goals
- Short written responses as requested in the application
Key Dates
- Applications open: 10 January 2026.
- Application deadline: 15 March 2026.
- Final decisions Announcements: 30 April 2026.
- Fellowship Program Starts: June 2026.
Selection Notes
- The fellowship is highly competitive due to limited awards and strong international demand
- Priority is given to applicants whose interests align closely with political economy and institutional research
- Applicants whose work falls outside the social sciences or lacks an economic or policy focus are excluded
Official Source Of the Carl Menger Fellowship
Application Page: https://mercatus.tfaforms.net/5120155
