The Emerging Scholars Program is a new initiative from the Mercatus Center designed to support classical liberal thinkers at any stage of their career who aspire to become influential public intellectuals. Through this two-year, full-time fellowship based on-site in Arlington, VA, Mercatus will host a dynamic cohort of scholars pursuing innovative, ideas-driven projects that advance classical liberal principles.
The term “scholar” is defined broadly. Participants may come from academia, policy, journalism, business, or other fields. Similarly, “emerging” can apply to individuals at a range of career stages—whether finishing a degree, shifting focus mid-career, returning to public life, or delaying retirement to pursue meaningful intellectual work. What unites all Emerging Scholars is a commitment to rigorous thinking, a passion for clear and accessible communication, and a desire to contribute to a flourishing free society.
The program centers around a core research project—which a scholar is ready to begin or eager to continue—but also emphasizes public engagement. Scholars will contribute to the broader mission of Mercatus by producing regular content across a range of media platforms, with support tailored to their specific goals and areas of expertise.
Each scholar will be fully integrated into the interdisciplinary academic community at Mercatus. The program will deepen each participant’s understanding of classical political economy and strengthen their ability to apply classical liberal ideas to today’s most pressing challenges. Scholars will receive individualized mentorship and training, but will also be eager to take initiative—organizing reading groups, hosting events, building networks, and helping shape the program in its early years.
These are full-time, salaried positions with benefits. The program will begin in Fall 2025.
Applications will be accepted until Monday, May 5, 2025. Applicants may also be considered for future cohorts.
For questions about the program, please contact Rebecca Lowe at [email protected].
Application Process
Applicants should submit the following materials:
Three short essays (500 words each):
- A description of the proposed research project
- An explanation of the applicant’s interest in classical liberalism
- A reflection on the applicant’s goals and approach to goal-setting
A one-page resume that includes all relevant contact information.