Interested in applying for a fellowship at the International Center for Jefferson Studies? Check back in summer 2025 for more information.
These fellowships are awarded for one month and are open to Historical Interpreters working at historic sites in Virgina. Successful applicants should demonstrate how time at the ICJS would help deepen their understanding of Thomas Jefferson and his world, defined broadly (Previous fellowship topics have included: archaeology (including the Digital Archeological Archive of Comparative Slavery); the enslaved community and their descendants (potentially making use of the Getting Word African American Oral History Project); Monticello plantation agriculture; the material culture of Monticello; Native American relations; Jefferson's views on religious freedom, his role as author of the Declaration of Independence, Founder of the University of Virginia, and leader of the Democratic-Republican political party, among many, many other topics) as well as positively influence their historical interpretation and tours moving forward. Fellows will be expected to participate in the broader scholarly community of the ICJS and be in residence at the center for the equivalent of four days a week during their fellowship. ICJS historians will be available to discuss the interpreter’s projects and suggest avenues of research. At the end of their fellowship, Fellows will give a 60-minute presentation to guides and other scholars overviewing what they’ve learned and how it will influence their historical interpretation.
In addition to access to materials, experts, and scholarly community, interpreters on fellowship will receive a stipend of $2,000, paid after the end of their fellowship, interpreters on fellowship will be expected to be present at the ICJS the equivalent of four days a week during their fellowship. Historical interpreters are responsible for arranging their time and scheduling with their supervisors before arriving at Kenwood.
Applicants should submit the following via online application:
· One-paragraph abstract summary of the overall research project
· 500-word succinct description of the research project, specifically addressing the materials to consult at Monticello and explaining why being in residence at the ICJS will assist the project
· One-paragraph biography
· CV/Resume
· Two letters of recommendation, uploaded directly through the online application
Fellowships are awarded for the following twelve months. For example, applicants accepted in April 2023 should be completed before May 2024.
Application questions should be addressed to Caitlin Lawrence (clawrence@monticello.org).