David H. Smith Postdoctoral Conservation Research Fellowship

MANNRS; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 72,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The David H. Smith Postdoctoral Conservation Research Fellowship offers early-career scientists an opportunity to conduct innovative research linking conservation science with management in the U.S. with an annual salary starting at $72,100. This prestigious program supports the development of applied conservation leaders through a robust mentoring system and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Annual salary increase

Research and travel budget of $40,000 over two years

Professional development retreats

Lifetime membership in the Society for Conservation Biology

Qualifications

• Within 3 years of completing PhD.
• PhD at a U.S. host institution.

Responsibilities

• Conduct innovative, solutions-oriented research linking conservation science with management.
• Design projects with mentors focused on real-world conservation needs.

Education

PhD

Job description

David H. Smith Postdoctoral Conservation Research Fellowship

Posted on July 17, 2025

Position Overview

The Society for Conservation Biology (SCB) is pleased to solicit applications for the 2026 David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship Program. These prestigious, two‑year postdoctoral fellowships support outstanding early‑career scientists who propose innovative, solutions‑oriented research that links conservation science with management and policy across the United States and its five permanently inhabited territories (Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa).

Funded by the Cedar Tree Foundation and administered by SCB, the program invests in the next generation of applied conservation leaders whose research directly advances how conservation is practiced in the U.S. Smith Fellows are selected based on both the strength of their proposed research and their potential as future conservation leaders. The program seeks bold thinkers who can translate science into real‑world impact and thrive within a supportive, peer‑based community.

2026 Smith Fellowships provide an annual salary of $72,100 in 2026 and $74,263 in 2027 (plus benefits), a $40,000 research and travel budget disbursed over two years, and up to 5% overhead to the host institution. A hallmark of the Smith Fellows experience is the extensive professional‑development program: Fellows attend three week‑long, program‑sponsored professional development retreats each year, become part of a vibrant and active alumni community, and receive lifetime membership in the Society for Conservation Biology.

Applicants design their projects with a team of at least two mentors (minimum one academic and one practitioner) who together advise on research design, connect the work to real‑world conservation needs, and support the Fellow’s professional growth and partnerships. At least one of the mentors should have a primary focus on conservation practice and will help connect the Fellow’s research to practical applications and provide insight into the management and policy implications of the work. Fellows may be administratively based at any U.S. academic institution, government agency, or conservation nonprofit, typically where one of their mentors is located or affiliated.

SCB and the Smith Fellows Program believe diversity promotes innovation and is essential to addressing complex conservation challenges, leading to more just, equitable and effective conservation goals. The Smith Fellows Program strongly encourages applications from individuals whose varied backgrounds and perspectives broaden participation in conservation. For more information, visit: www.smithfellows.org.

Eligibility

Early-career (3 years post-PhD) applicants of any citizenship status are welcome, provided they will be based at a U.S. host institution, their research directly informs conservation practice in the U.S., and the research primarily takes place within the U.S. and its five permanently inhabited territories. The program does not sponsor visas.

Key Dates

• Application deadline: September 30, 2025 (11:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time)
• Fellowships awarded: early 2026
• Typical Fellowship start window: June 1 – September 30, 2026

Apply online: Full proposal guidelines are available at smithfellows.org/join-us, along with other application resources. All components of the proposal—including reference and mentor letters—must be submitted via the online portal: apply.smithfellows.org.

Questions? Contact program staff at [e-mail].

Responsibilities

See overview above.

Qualifications

Within 3 years of completing your PhD.

Preferred Level of Education

PhD.

Benefits Offered

Benefits of your chosen host institution.

Compensation/Salary

$72,100 per year.

How to Apply

Visit apply.smithfellows.org to start your application.