Switzer Fellowship 2027: Receive an $18,000 Award for Environmental Leadership in the United States

Applications are open for the 2027 Switzer Fellowship, a prestigious one-year programme offered by the Robert and Patricia Switzer Foundation supporting graduate students committed to environmental improvement, social equity, and practical solutions to environmental challenges. Selected fellows receive an unrestricted $18,000 cash award, leadership training, career development support, and access to a professional network of more than 800 environmental leaders.

The fellowship is designed for master's and PhD students across fields such as environmental science, policy, public health, economics, advocacy, planning, business, law, and environmental justice who want to translate their academic expertise into meaningful environmental and social change. Since 1986, the Switzer Foundation has selected fellows who contribute to environmental progress through research, public policy, community engagement, and professional practice. The fellowship is open to eligible graduate students across the United States and U.S. territories.

Key benefits include an unrestricted $18,000 cash grant paid in two installments (January and June), two multi-day in-person retreats focused on leadership development, professional career coaching, membership in the Switzer Network, and access to additional post-fellowship grant opportunities. The award may be used for tuition, university fees, living expenses, and education- or research-related costs.