Smith Postdoctoral Fellows 2024 Call for Proposals Announced

The Society for Conservation Biology is pleased to solicit applications for the David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship Program. These two-year postdoctoral fellowships provide support for outstanding early-career scientists who propose innovative ways to link conservation science and theory with policy and management. The Program supports and encourages Fellows to improve and expand their research skills while directing their efforts towards addressing conservation problems of pressing concern for the United States. Fellows are selected on the basis of 1) demonstrated excellence in research, 2) potential for innovation and leadership, 3) commitment to conservation, and 4) the strength of their proposal. We envision that the cadre of scientists supported by the Smith Fellows Program will continue to assume leadership positions across the field of conservation science. Each applicant proposes a team of at least two mentors to work closely with them during their Fellowship including: providing an ‘institutional home’ for the Fellow, helping with research design, connecting the Fellow and their research to practical applications, supporting the Fellow’s professional development as a conservation scientist, and helping to build research skills, collaborations, and networks. At least one of the mentors should have a primary focus on conservation practice and will help connect the Fellow’s research to practical applications and provide insight into the management and policy implications of the work. The mentor team is integral to the Fellow’s and project success, and mentors are expected to be an active part of the proposed research plan and to meet with Fellows regularly to help shape and guide the work. APPLY ONLINE: All components of the proposal package will be submitted via the online application platform, including reference letters. Access it here: apply.smithfellows.org.