Young Scholars in American Religion

2026–2028 Young Scholars Application

About the Young Scholars Program

Beginning in the fall of 2026, the Center for the Study of Religion & American Culture will once again offer a series of seminars devoted to the enhancement of the teaching and research of American religion. The aims of the Young Scholars in American Religion program are to develop ideas and methods of teaching in a supportive workshop environment, stimulate scholarly research and writing, and create a community of scholars that will continue into the future.

The 2026–2028 Young Scholars cohort will be led by Dr. Hillary Kaell and Dr. Lerone A. Martin. More information about the mentors and the Young Scholars program can be found at the link below.

Learn More About the Young Scholars Program and Mentors →

Applying for the Young Scholars Program

Scholars are eligible to apply if they:

  • are working in a subfield of the area of religion in North America, broadly understood;
  • have a terminal degree in hand;
  • hold a full-time academic position (tenure track or renewable long-term); and
  • have launched their careers within the last seven years.

Scholars are selected with the understanding that they will commit to the program for all seminar dates. Participants are expected to produce two course syllabi, with justification of teaching approach, and a publishable research article over the course of their seminars.

2026–2028 Program Dates

Session I: October 15–18, 2026
Session II: April 8–11, 2027
Session III: October 14–17, 2027
Session IV: March 23–26, 2028

Applications are now available and will remain open until April 1, 2026. Applications must be completed in one session as progress cannot be saved. All application materials, including at least two completed letters of reference, must be submitted by the deadline to receive consideration.

Young Scholars in American Religion Application

Name(Required)
(For example: Theology, Black Religious Studies, Material Culture, Buddhism, Community-Engaged Research)
Please compose a 750-word essay indicating why you are interested in participating and describe your current and projected research and teaching interests.
Max. file size: 5 MB.
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Enter the email address of your reference. Your reference will receive an email with a link to upload a reference letter. Be sure to have your referrer check their spam folder to ensure they receive your reference request.
Enter the email address of your reference. Your reference will receive an email with a link to upload a reference letter. Be sure to have your referrer check their spam folder to ensure they receive your reference request.
Enter the email address of your reference. Your reference will receive an email with a link to upload a reference letter. Be sure to have your referrer check their spam folder to ensure they receive your reference request.