The Rye Research Fellowship is an unpaid, mentored professional development opportunity designed for students seeking meaningful experience in archival research, public policy, and museum practice. Fellows work closely with the Rye Historical Society leadership and gain direct access to primary source materials, contributing to research initiatives, collections projects, and interpretive programming.
In addition to hands-on experience, fellows have the opportunity to present their research publicly, whether through a lecture, community program, or student symposium hosted at the Square House Museum. Fellows may also receive publication credit in the Society’s newsletter, exhibition materials, or digital platforms, allowing them to build a professional portfolio and demonstrate applied scholarly work.
This fellowship is ideal for students considering graduate study or careers in history, archives, museums, or other cultural institutions, offering both practical training and tangible scholarly outcomes.
Eligibility
Rye Fellows must remain matriculated in a degree program at a U.S. post-secondary institution for the duration of their research. To prove matriculation, fellows will be required to submit a signed matriculation form or may also submit a letter from a dean or registrar at their home institution stating that their graduation date will occur after the completion of their Rye Fellowship.
Rye Research Fellowships are available to undergraduates pursuing bachelor's or associate's degrees at any U.S. college or university.
Graduate students pursuing master's, doctoral, or professional degrees are eligible for Rye Research Fellowships.
Non-degree certificate programs are not eligible by themselves.
Selection Committee
Applications for fellowships are screened and chosen by a Selection Committee comprised of experts in various fields, but all with extensive historical experience. Summer Fellowship applications will be evaluated in two rounds. Finalists will be announced in April. Winter Fellowship applications will be announced by the middle of November.
Application Windows
- Summer Fellowship: March 2026
- Winter Fellowship: October 2026
For more information please contact:
Natalie Hofstedt
Director of Programming
natalie.hofstedt@ryehistory.org