Air Force Science & Technology Fellowship Program

Postdoctoral and Senior Research Fellows 

Air Force Science & Technology Fellowship Program 

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine maintain a  database of nearly 300 active research opportunities and administer postdoctoral and senior fellowship awards at the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), and the U.S. Space Force (USSF) under the  Air Force Science & Technology Fellowship Program (AF STFP) .  

We are seeking highly qualified candidates who are U.S. citizens and hold, or anticipate earning, a Ph.D., Sc.D., M.D., or D.V.M. in a variety of fields of science or engineering. Senior research awards are designated for those with >5 years since earning their degree.  

Application deadline dates* (four annual review cycles): 

• February 1  

• May 1 

• August 1 

• November 1 

*If a deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline is moved to the next business day.   

Research Fellows have the opportunity to: 

• Design and conduct an independent research project in an area compatible with the interests of the Air Force laboratories 

• Enhance their visibility in their field through a nationally recognized, competitive award 

• Devote full-time effort to mission-driven research that contributes to national priorities 

• Access the excellent and often unique Air Force research facilities 

• Collaborate with leading scientists and engineers 

Award benefits include: 

• Monthly base stipend starting at $95,000/year; may be higher based on experience  

• Health insurance (including dental and vision) 

• Relocation assistance for awardees who will be on tenure for at least six months and who at the time of award reside more than 50 miles from the host laboratory 

• Professional travel allowance 

Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, creed, color, age, gender identity, or national origin. Candidates must be U.S. citizens at the time of application. 

Visit for further program details, eligibility, required application components, and  guidance for submitting an application !