The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Doctoral Fellowships are prestigious awards designed to support outstanding doctoral students in the social sciences and humanities disciplines. These fellowships, administered by SSHRC, play a crucial role in fostering advanced research and scholarship, contributing to Canada’s intellectual landscape.
Contents
Here is an overview of the SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships:
| Value | $20,000 per year |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12, 24, 36 or 48 months |
| Application deadline | Through a Canadian institution with a quota: Contact your institution Directly to SSHRC: October 17, 2023 (8 p.m. Eastern) If you want to know the application deadline that is relevant to you, refer to the section titled “Where should I submit my application?” PDF |
| How to apply | Refer to Application process |
| Results announced | April 2024 |
| Apply | Web CV, application, and instructions |
Key Features
Eligibility Criteria
SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents pursuing doctoral studies in the social sciences and humanities. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to advancing knowledge in their chosen field.
Value and Duration
Successful applicants receive financial support for a maximum of 48 months during their doctoral studies. The fellowship provides a substantial stipend to cover living expenses and research-related costs, allowing recipients to focus on their academic pursuits.
Research Focus
SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships support research across a wide range of social sciences and humanities disciplines, including but not limited to sociology, psychology, history, literature, and cultural studies. The program encourages innovative and impactful research projects.
SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships Application Process
Competitive Selection
The application process is quite demanding, and candidates must submit a comprehensive curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a thorough research proposal. The proposed research’s impact and merit are assessed by the selection committee.
Research Proposal
A strong research proposal is one of the application’s main requirements. It should highlight the significance and uniqueness of the project by outlining the goals, approaches, and anticipated contributions of the doctoral study.
Community Engagement
Knowledge Mobilization
SSHRC emphasizes knowledge mobilization, encouraging doctoral researchers to engage with diverse audiences beyond academia. This may include sharing research findings with policymakers, community organizations, and the public, ensuring that academic work has broader societal impacts.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The fellowship program recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Doctoral fellows are encouraged to explore connections with scholars from different disciplines, enriching the overall research community.
Related: Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
Career Development and Impact
Professional Development
Beyond financial support, SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships contribute to the professional development of scholars. Fellows often engage in conferences, workshops, and other academic activities that enhance their research and contribute to their academic growth.
Contributions Beyond Academia
SSHRC fellows frequently make contributions beyond academia, leveraging their research to address societal challenges. Many alumni of the program become leaders in various sectors, influencing policy, contributing to cultural understanding, and fostering positive change.
Alumni Network and Ongoing Impact
Network of Scholars
The SSHRC Doctoral Fellowship program creates a network of scholars who continue to engage with and contribute to the academic community. Alumni often collaborate on research projects, mentor new scholars, and contribute to ongoing discussions in their respective fields.
Sustained Impact
The impact of SSHRC Doctoral Fellows extends well beyond their doctoral studies. The program aims to cultivate scholars who not only advance knowledge during their studies but also contribute significantly to their fields and society throughout their careers.
Research Community and Collaboration
Community of Scholars
SSHRC Doctoral Fellows become part of a vibrant community of scholars, providing opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and interdisciplinary interactions. This collaborative ethos enriches the academic experience and fosters a supportive research environment.
Research Workshops and Seminars
The fellowship program often facilitates research workshops and seminars, bringing together fellows to discuss their work, share insights, and receive constructive feedback. These events contribute to the intellectual growth of fellows and encourage cross-disciplinary dialogue.
Global Perspectives and Diversity
International Research Collaboration
SSHRC recognizes the importance of global perspectives and encourages doctoral fellows to engage in international research collaboration. This exposure broadens the scope of research projects and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of social sciences and humanities on a global scale.
Diversity in Research Themes
The fellowship program supports a diverse range of research themes, reflecting the breadth of the social sciences and humanities. Fellows have the flexibility to explore issues related to culture, society, policy, and more, contributing to a rich tapestry of research within the academic community.
Public Engagement and Knowledge Mobilization
Dissemination of Research Findings
SSHRC Doctoral Fellows are encouraged to disseminate their research findings to broader audiences. This includes engaging with policymakers, community groups, and the public to ensure that academic research has practical applications and contributes to informed decision-making.
Public Lectures and Outreach
Many fellows participate in public lectures and outreach activities, sharing their expertise with a wider audience. This commitment to public engagement aligns with SSHRC’s emphasis on making research accessible and relevant beyond academic circles.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Evolution of Research Focus
The SSHRC is aware that priorities for research change over time. Doctorate researchers can change their study topic thanks to the fellowship program, which makes sure that their work stays current and sensitive to new societal issues.
Interdisciplinary Exploration
In light of the fact that multidisciplinary perspectives are frequently necessary to address difficult problems, fellows are urged to look into interdisciplinary research methods. The depth and scope of research contributions are improved by this multidisciplinary research.
Impact Beyond Graduation
Leadership in Policy and Advocacy
Many SSHRC Doctoral Fellowship alumni go on to assume leadership roles in policy development and advocacy. Their expertise contributes to shaping policies that address societal issues and promote positive change.
Continued Contributions to Research
Alumni of the fellowship program continue to make significant contributions to research, publishing in reputable journals, presenting at conferences, and participating in collaborative projects. Their sustained impact reinforces the value of SSHRC’s investment in fostering scholarly excellence.
