The Arthur and Lila Weinberg Fellowship for Independent Researchers
Newberry Library
Award: $3,000
Deadline: Jan 3, 2026
To provide for writers, journalists, filmmakers, visual and performing artists, and other humanists who wish to use the Newberry's collection to further their creative work. Qualifications: Applicants must be individuals working outside of traditional academic settings; must be faculty members and postdoctoral scholars; PhD candidates with “all but dissertation” (ABD) status; and scholars with terminal degrees in areas that do not offer a PhD, such as an MFA, MLIS, MSW, or JD. Selection criteria: Preference is given to individuals working on projects that focus on social justice or reform. How to apply: Applicants must submit online application form; should include project abstract (300 words) describing the significance of applicants project; 1,500 word project description; a selective bibliography (one page) listing secondary sources related to applicants project; current curriculum vitae (no more than five pages); letters of recommendation, in English; excessive materials include: images (either embedded or in appendices); abstract or project description exceeding the word limit; appendices or bibliography exceeding the word limit; CVs longer than the five-page limit; personal cover letter; audio-visual materials; more than three letters of reference. Focus: Arts; Filmmaking; Humanities.