James C. Gaither Junior Fellows Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Gaither Junior Fellows have the opportunity to work as research assistants for senior scholars at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace located in Washington DC. This program is a year-long paid fellowship for seniors and recently graduated alumni to participate in a cohort of fellows and gain hands-on experience in the field of international policy.
Applicants choose one of several possible research areas, including Democracy, Conflict, and Governance; American Statecraft; Nuclear Policy; Technology and International Affairs; Middle East; International Security and Political Economy; Asia (with separate programs on China, Japan, and Economics); Russia and Eurasia; and Africa.
The Academic Fellowships Team is here to support you through all steps of the application process. If you are interested in connecting with us to learn more, please contact us at fellowships@brandeis.edu.
Eligibility
- Seniors and alumni who have graduated in the past academic year.
- There are no citizenship requirement, but all applicants must be eligible to work in the United States for a full twelve months from Aug 1 - July 31 following graduation.
- If you have started a graduate program, you are no longer eligible.
Application Timeline
- Campus deadline: November 15, 2024
- National deadline: January 15, 2025
Award
- All fellowship positions are paid, full-time positions. Fellows begin on August 1st.
- The current salary is $1,750 per semi-monthly pay period ($42,000 per year).
- A full benefits package is also provided.
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- A completed application form: In October, the Academic Fellowships Team will receive this year's application, and you can email fellowships@brandeis.edu to request a copy and chat with us about the way to get started. We are happy to talk to and work with potential applicants even prior to the release of this year's application, so please reach out for a meeting as soon as you decide you are interested in applying or learning more.
- An essay: The topics are announced by the Carnegie Endowment in early October, and all applicants are asked to write a three-page, double-spaced op-ed style essay on the assigned topic associated with your specific subject area. These essays are should display your skills in analysis, logic, and written expression.
- A personal statement: A one-page, double-spaced essay explaining why you want to be a Junior Fellow.
- A resume: 1 to 2 pages, ordered in such a way to emphasize your research skills and the experiences most relevant to your ability to be an effective research assistant in the specific subject area for which you are applying.
- Transcript: Order an official transcript from the Registrar’s Office.
- Two letters of recommendation: Usually, at least one will be from a faculty member in your major. You can consult with the Academic Fellowships Team regarding your options and selecting the best people to support your application.
- A written essay that demonstrates a deep knowledge of the subject area as well as the ability to synthesize information and construct a compelling argument
- Related academic study and/or work experience
- Very strong academic record
- Two letters of recommendation from people who can directly address the applicant's previous research and academic experiences as well as their potential to succeed as a Junior Fellow
- Senior Scholars review all applications and then invite finalists for an in-person interview to assess preparedness and fit. The Fellowships Advising Team assists all finalists with interview preparation including meetings and mock interviews.
- Your Academic Fellowships Team: Meredith and Elizabeth are here to help you through each step of the process, from exploring the different application components, to choosing your recommendation letter writers, to providing feedback on your essays. Email fellowships@brandeis.edu to schedule a meeting with us!
- Gaither Jr. Fellow FAQs: The Carnegie Endowment has compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers. This is a great place to further explore the eligibility requirements, application advice, and more. The Academic Fellowships Team is also regularly in contact with the Carnegie Endowment, so please feel free to reach out to us as well!
“The process allowed me to advocate for myself and identify my own strengths and abilities when it comes to research. It also allowed me to build a better connection with my mentor and clarified my long-term academic goals as I look forward to my senior thesis.”