ARL USA Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 – $115,000 Stipend & Research Freedom
The ARL USA Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 offers early-career scientists and engineers an exceptional opportunity to conduct independent, high-impact research at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL). This prestigious program supports talented Ph.D. holders by providing generous funding, research freedom, and access to world-class facilities.
Hosted by the National Academies, this is one of the most competitive and rewarding postdoctoral fellowships in the U.S. government research sector.
Location: United States
Funding: Partial Funding (Includes stipend, health coverage, relocation, and research support)
Deadline: July 10, 2025
Fields: Physical, Life, Computational, Behavioral Sciences, and Engineering
Eligible Applicants: International Ph.D. holders (no U.S. citizenship required)
Fellowship Details
Degree Level:
Postdoctoral (Fellowship-level research program)
Fields of Research:
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Physical Sciences
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Life Sciences
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Computational Sciences
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Behavioral Sciences
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Engineering
Fellows will lead independent research aligned with ARL’s mission to advance cutting-edge defense technologies and systems.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive support package, including:
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Annual Stipend: $115,000
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Health Insurance: Full coverage (medical, dental, and vision)
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Relocation Allowance
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Professional Travel Support
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Appointment Duration: One year, renewable annually for up to three years based on performance
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Research Independence: Conduct your own project using ARL’s advanced research infrastructure
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Hold a Ph.D. or Sc.D. degree by October 1, 2025
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Be within five years of receiving their doctorate as of the July 10, 2025 application deadline
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Demonstrate a strong research record with notable achievements during doctoral studies
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Open to all nationalities
(U.S. citizenship is not required. However, selected fellows must receive security clearance and Department of Defense (DoD) approval.)
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the National Academies Portal
Required Documents:
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Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and publication list
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Research Proposal aligned with ARL’s mission
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Recommendation Letters
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Proof of Ph.D. Degree Completion Timeline
Deadline: July 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time
Why Choose ARL?
The U.S. Army Research Laboratory is a premier research institution focused on defense innovation. Fellowship recipients benefit from:
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Access to state-of-the-art defense research tools and labs
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A collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
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High funding stability and the autonomy to pursue novel research directions
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Opportunities to network and work alongside top defense scientists and engineers in the U.S.
FAQs – ARL Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025
1. Can international students apply?
Yes, the fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities. However, final selection is contingent upon obtaining security clearance and DoD approval.
2. Do I need to have completed my Ph.D. before applying?
You must have completed your Ph.D. (or Sc.D.) by October 1, 2025. Those defending after this date are not eligible.
3. Is this a remote or in-person position?
This is a full-time, in-residence position at ARL facilities in the U.S.
4. Can the fellowship be renewed?
Yes, the initial one-year appointment can be renewed annually for up to three years, subject to performance review.
5. Where can I find more fellowships like this?
You can sign up for updates on similar fellowship opportunities on the National Academies website.
Final Thoughts
The ARL Distinguished Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity for driven researchers aiming to make a real impact in science and defense. With high compensation, full research independence, and access to premier U.S. military research facilities, this program is ideal for postdocs ready to lead and innovate.
Apply before July 10, 2025 to take the next step in your research career.
