Program Overview

Introduction to the John Adams Fellowship

The John Adams Fellowship is a two-week intellectual boot camp at Clemson University designed for Ph.D. students and recent Ph.D.s in politics, history, or philosophy programs who are interested in studying the American Revolutionary and Founding periods.

About the Fellowship

The aim of this fellowship is to introduce graduate students and recently graduated Ph.D.s to the key ideas and thinkers of the American Founding period. John Adams Fellows spend two intensive weeks studying the primary and secondary literature on the American Founding, participating in both seminars and attending lectures. Fellows also participate in professional development sessions to begin their preparation to teach and engage in research on the American Founding.

Eligibility and Application

Students who meet the following criteria are strongly encouraged to apply:

• Students who will be enrolled in an accredited Ph.D. program during the upcoming academic year or have recently completed a Ph.D. in philosophy, history, or political science.
• Students who are able to commit to attending the entirety of the program.
• Students who have a research or teaching interest that would benefit from a greater understanding of the American Revolutionary and Founding periods.

Application Details

To apply, students must submit general information, education history, short-answer questions, and a CV upload. The application deadline is February 1, 2026. Application review will take place after the deadline, and applicants can expect to hear back regarding a decision by March 1, 2026.

Fellowship Details

• Duration: Two weeks, from July 19 to August 1, 2026.
• Stipend: A $12,000 stipend will be awarded to all Fellows to cover expenses, including housing, dining, and flights.
• Housing: Provided on Clemson University's campus.
• Schedule: The program's schedule is in progress and will be sent to accepted Fellows via email. Expect most weekdays to consist of two seminars and two lectures, as well as an evening activity. Weekends are predominantly free.

Responsibilities and Benefits

As a Fellow, one is required to attend the entirety of the John Adams Fellows program in person and complete the course readings, actively participating in the program. The Snow Institute will provide all readings and learning materials. The $12,000 stipend will be distributed in three steps:

1. A portion will be used by SISC to pay for housing and meals on Clemson's campus.
2. $1,500 will be sent to the Fellow once the flight is confirmed.
3. The remainder will be paid within six weeks of completing the program.

Additional Information

Ph.D. students from any discipline who have a research or teaching interest that would benefit from a greater understanding of key writings in the American Revolutionary and Founding periods are encouraged to apply. Previous applicants who were not accepted are welcome to apply again.