Online admissions materials are due 6 weeks before the proposed start date of appointment:

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE UNABLE TO UPLOAD ANY REFERENCE LETTER TO YOUR FILE THAT HAS NOT BEEN LISTED WITHIN THE REFERENCE SECTION OF THE APPLICATION. THEREFORE, WE ASK THAT YOU LIST ALL REFERENCE NAMES AND CONTACT INFORMATION ON YOUR APPLICATION BEFORE CONTACTING YOUR REFERENCE WRITERS.

• Selection and sponsorship of an SAO Advisor
• Department Head approval letter
• Application
• Summary of previous and current research
• Curriculum Vitae
• Three reference letters
• Transcript of grades
• Research proposal

Application Instructions

Application Materials are due 6 WEEKS BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT START DATE. Please carefully read the Application Instructions and the FAQ before beginning the online application.

NOTE: The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) ONLY ISSUES J-1 VISAS TO FELLOWSHIP RECIPIENTS. The SAO will not be able to issue you an alternative type of visa at the time of your appointment or during your tenure at SAO if you can no longer renew your J visa or have reached the maximum time limitation of this particular visa type. Please contact us before you apply if you have any questions about our visa policy.

• Application Instructions
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Fellowship Application Login

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, sex or national origin.