CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: 2025–2026 RESEARCH FELLOW
IamNCO seeking Research Fellows
The Institute for Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Leadership (IamNCO) invites applications for its 2025–2026 Research Fellow Cohort, a competitive, one-year fellowship designed to advance the study and professionalization of the U.S. Army noncommissioned officer corps. As a policy and research think tank, IamNCO is committed to producing rigorous, actionable research that informs leader development, improves professional military education, and strengthens the voice and impact of enlisted leaders in national defense.
We welcome applicants from professional and academic backgrounds, including military practitioners, educators, doctoral candidates, and independent scholars. Fellows will contribute to the mission of IamNCO by pursuing original research projects that support thought leadership, publication, and policy engagement related to enlisted leadership.
FELLOWSHIP CATEGORIES:
IamNCO will appoint up to three fellows to one of three categories:
Postdoctoral Fellows: Individuals who have completed a doctoral degree within the past five years and seek to deepen their applied research portfolio in a supportive, mission-focused environment.
Visiting Fellows: Scholars or practitioners from academic institutions, government, or partner organizations collaborating with IamNCO for a defined project or term (minimum 3 months).
Nonresident Fellows: Remote-based contributors who remain affiliated with IamNCO and actively participate in research, writing, and virtual events throughout the fellowship year.
FELLOWSHIP EXPECTATIONS:
Fellows will be invited to:
Conduct a focused research project aligned with IamNCO's mission
Participate in monthly cohort discussions and peer review
Contribute to at least one formal publication (e.g., white paper, research brief, or peer-reviewed article)
Present findings through a webinar, conference, or professional forum
Support IamNCO outreach and knowledge-sharing initiatives as appropriate
These positions are voluntary and non-employee in nature. Fellows will receive a scaled honorarium based on projected outcomes and contribution level. IamNCO provides editorial and peer support, access to research networks, and public platforms to amplify the work of each fellow. Fellows may also receive priority consideration for funded research opportunities and speaking engagements.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
To apply, submit the following materials by July 31, 2025:
Resume or CV
Include relevant academic, professional, or military experience, focusing on research, writing, teaching, or leadership roles.
2. Statement of Interest (500–1,000 words)
Describe your motivation for applying, connection to IamNCO’s mission, and the research question or topic you propose exploring during the fellowship year. Include any intended outcomes or deliverables (e.g., publication, presentation, tool development).
3. Writing Sample (optional but encouraged)
A short published or unpublished article, paper, op-ed, or other work that reflects your voice, thinking, or analytical skills. This helps us better understand your communication style and approach.
Applications should be submitted by email to fellows@iamnco.org with the subject line: 2025–2026 Research Fellow Application – [Your Name].
SELECTION TIMELINE:
Applications due: July 31, 2025
Cohort announced: September 1, 2025
Fellowship term: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026
We encourage applicants from across the uniformed services and veteran and Soldier for Life researchers committed to elevating enlisted perspectives through academic research and policy considerations.