The 2027 Jansky Fellowship supports independent research using or advancing NSF NRAO facilities. It is for early-career scientists in radio astronomy, multi-wavelength science, instrumentation, computing, and theory.
Fellows are based at NRAO/GBO sites in Socorro/Albuquerque, Charlottesville, or Green Bank. Compelling split or non-resident appointments at a U.S. university may also be offered.
Benefits & funding
- Typical starting salary of USD 75,000.
- USD 17,000 per year for travel and other research expenses.
- A two- to three-year appointment.
- Medical, dental, vision, paid leave, and an employer retirement contribution equal to 10% of eligible base pay.
Eligibility
- Applicants may be of any nationality and must hold a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, computer science, or a related field.
- No more than five years of postdoctoral experience is normally allowed at the fellowship start; well-justified exceptions, including career breaks or hardship, receive consideration.
- Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States when employment begins; H-1B sponsorship is unavailable, while eligible candidates may receive J-1 sponsorship.
- Preference is given to applicants within the first few years after their PhD.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Education required
PhD
Experience required
≤ 5 yrs
Circlebreaker is a free database of global fellowships, scholarships and programs — every one decoded like this.
We only check the criteria we have data for. Always confirm full eligibility on the official page before applying.
Application process
- 1Prepare one PDF containing a cover letter, selection-criteria statement, CV with publication list, research summary, and proposal.
- 2For a non-resident or split appointment, include an approval and hosting letter from the external department chair.
- 3Submit the application electronically by October 28, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
- 4Arrange for three referees to submit letters by November 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
Program timeline
Application deadline
October 28, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EDT
Reference-letter deadline
November 11, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EDT
Virtual interviews
January 2027
Award offers
By the end of January 2027
September 2027
Nominal start; no later than January 2028