The NASA Hubble Fellowship Program (NHFP) gives recent postdoctoral scientists the chance to carry out independent research that advances any branch of NASA Astrophysics.
Application Deadline
- Applications due: 28 October 2026 (7:00 PM EDT)
Tell Me About The Fellowship
The NASA Hubble Fellowship Program (NHFP) supports exceptionally promising postdoctoral scientists pursuing independent research in astrophysics. Fellows may focus on theory, observation, experimentation, or instrument development. The program preserves the legacy of NASA’s previous prize fellowships and assigns fellows to one of three categories:
- Einstein Fellows – “How Does the Universe Work?”
- Hubble Fellows – “How Did We Get Here?”
- Sagan Fellows – “Are We Alone?”
Which Fields are Eligible
- Astrophysics research (theory, observation, experimentation, instrumentation).
- Projects must clearly demonstrate relevance to NASA Astrophysics.
Type
- Postdoctoral Fellowship | Astrophysics | NASA
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD in astronomy, physics, or related discipline.
- Propose independent research relevant to NASA Astrophysics.
- Secure a U.S. host institution (max two new fellows per institution per year).
- Submit three letters of reference.
How Are Fellows Selected
- Based on research proposal quality, originality, feasibility, and impact.
- Reviewers include experts and astrophysicists outside the applicant’s immediate field.
- Strong applications highlight candidate’s role in past accomplishments and tailor proposals to NHFP priorities.
Which Countries are Eligible
- Global – international applicants eligible, provided they secure a U.S. host institution.
Where Will the Fellowship Be Taken
- U.S. host institutions of the fellow’s choice.
How Many Fellows
- Multiple fellows selected annually; distribution across Einstein, Hubble, and Sagan categories.
What is the Benefit of the Fellowship
- Up to three years of funding (initial one‑year appointment + two annual renewals).
- Salary and benefits provided through host institution.
- Research independence and access to NASA Astrophysics resources.
How Long Will the Fellowship Last
- Three years maximum (renewed annually based on performance and funding).
Required Documents
- Application form (via NHFP portal).
- Research proposal (tailored to NHFP priorities).
- CV.
- Three letters of reference.
- Host institution confirmation.
How to Apply
- Review the Announcement of Opportunity (issued 8 September 2026).
- Apply via the NHFP application website (opens 8 September 2026).
- Submit application by 28 October 2026.
- Ensure referees submit letters by 4 November 2026.
- Await award offers (February 2027) and public announcement (March 2027).
📍 Location: U.S. host institutions 📧 Contact: NHFP office at STScI (administered with JPL, NExScI, and CXC)
🌐 Visit the application webpage for details
