The Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship, sponsored by the Stanton Foundation and hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), is a prestigious twelve-month program designed to support postdoctoral scholars pursuing policy-relevant research in nuclear security.

As global security challenges continue to evolve, the need for innovative thinking around nuclear policy, deterrence, and nonproliferation has never been greater. This fellowship offers early-career researchers the opportunity to contribute fresh insights, engage with leading policymakers, and bridge the gap between academic research and practical policy solutions.

Program Details

The Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship allows fellows to spend twelve months at CFR’s offices in New York or Washington, D.C., conducting independent, policy-oriented research. Fellows lead projects of their own design while writing at least one policy-relevant publication and contributing to CFR’s work on nuclear issues.

Throughout the program, participants receive mentorship from senior fellows in CFR’s David Rockefeller Studies Program, gaining exposure to real-world policy development and professional networking within the global security community.

Key Focus Areas:

• Nuclear terrorism and security
• Nuclear proliferation and deterrence
• Nuclear weapons policy and force posture
• International cooperation on nuclear safety

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive:

• A $101,000 stipend for the 2026–27 fellowship year (paid in 12 monthly installments)
• Access to CFR’s extensive research network and resources
• Professional mentorship from leading experts in nuclear policy
• Opportunities to collaborate with scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders
• Direct engagement in policy discussions shaping U.S. and global nuclear strategy

Fellows are based in person at CFR and are expected to work on-site at least three days per week, including designated Anchor Days (Tuesdays and Thursdays).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens
• Hold postdoctoral status at the time of application
• Demonstrate a strong record of academic and professional achievement
• Submit a compelling proposal addressing nuclear security, deterrence, proliferation, or related policy issues

This fellowship is highly competitive, with only one award granted each year.

Fellowship Duration and Award

Duration: Twelve months

Award Amount: $101,000

Location: CFR offices in New York or Washington, D.C.

Fellows are considered independent contractors rather than employees of CFR and are not eligible for employee benefits such as health insurance.

Application Process and Deadline

Applications for the 2026–2027 Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship close on November 30, 2025.

Required Application Materials:

• Basic biographical, educational, and employment information
• Two letters of recommendation
• A detailed project proposal outlining research goals and policy relevance

Selection is based on scholarly qualifications, project merit, and the feasibility of proposed research.

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed by a committee of experts in nuclear security and foreign policy. Selection is based on:

• Academic excellence and research potential
• The significance and originality of the proposed project
• Relevance to current nuclear policy debates

Finalists will be notified by the Council on Foreign Relations.

Why Apply for the Stanton Nuclear Security Fellowship?

This fellowship provides a rare opportunity to shape the future of nuclear security policy while working within one of the world’s most respected international think tanks. Participants not only advance their own research but also contribute to real-world policy discussions and gain valuable exposure to U.S. and global security networks.

As former fellow Sarah Kreps, Professor at Cornell University, stated:

“An unrivaled experience in terms of opportunities to build bridges with the policy community and thereby ground research in a real-world context.”

How to Apply

Application Deadline: November 30, 2025.

Apply here: Application

For more information: Council on Foreign Relations

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth