How the Wenner-Gren Foundation’s $25,000 Grant Supports Post-PhD Researchers

The Wenner-Gren Foundation has announced its Post-PhD Research Grant for the 2025-2026 cycle. Applications are now being accepted with a final deadline of November 1, 2025. This grant provides crucial funding for individual research projects in anthropology. It aims to support innovative work that deepens our understanding of humanity.

The foundation emphasizes there is no preference for any specific methodology or subfield. It particularly encourages proposals that blend subfields and pioneer new ideas. This open approach allows for a wide range of scholarly exploration.

Grant Details and Financial Support

The maximum award amount for the Post-PhD Research Grant is $25,000. These grants are nonrenewable. There is no strict limit on the project’s duration, according to the foundation’s guidelines.

Applicants can request funding for distinct research phases. This could include covering expenses for two separate summer field seasons. It is important to note that the awards do not cover institutional overhead or administrative fees.

Eligibility Requirements for Global Scholars

The grant is open to doctorates in anthropology or closely related fields. Qualified scholars of any nationality or institutional affiliation can apply. The Wenner-Gren Foundation welcomes applications from independent and senior scholars.

Individuals who are within five months of receiving their doctorate are also eligible. They must complete their degree before the grant’s official start date. Most previous grantees must complete their existing award terms before applying again.

Application Process and Key Components

The application requires general information about the applicant and their project. A key component is a clear abstract summarizing the proposed research. Applicants must also provide detailed answers to six specific questions about their project.

A detailed budget is required for two scenarios: a best-case (Plan A) and a worst-case (Plan B). A relevant bibliography must also be submitted. Unsuccessful previous applicants may reapply but must address reviewer feedback.

The Wenner-Gren Foundation Post-PhD Research Grant represents a significant opportunity for advanced anthropological research. This funding enables scholars to pursue groundbreaking work that explores the human condition. Researchers are encouraged to review the guidelines thoroughly before the November 1st deadline.

Info at your fingertips

What is the maximum amount of the Wenner-Gren grant?

The maximum award is $25,000. This grant is a one-time, nonrenewable source of funding for research expenses.

Who is eligible to apply for this anthropology grant?

The grant is open to scholars with a PhD in anthropology or a related field. Independent scholars and applicants of any nationality are welcome to apply.

What is the application deadline for the 2025 cycle?

The final deadline for applications is November 1, 2025. All materials must be submitted by this date to be considered.

Does the grant funding cover institutional overhead costs?

No. The Wenner-Gren awards do not include funds for institutional overhead or any administrative fees charged by the applicant’s institution.

Can I apply if I haven’t quite finished my PhD yet?

Yes, if you are within five months of receiving your doctorate. However, you must have completed your degree before the proposed start date of your grant.

What should be included in the application budget?

Applicants must prepare two detailed budgets: a Plan A for a best-case scenario and a Plan B for a worst-case scenario, outlining all projected research expenses.

Trusted Sources

Wenner-Gren Foundation