I. Introduction
Welcome to the Africana Research Center (ARC) Postdoctoral Fellowship Program at Penn State.
The ARC Fellowship, initiated in Fall 2005, supports scholars conducting research on Africa and the African Diaspora. The program fosters a world-class community of early career scholars and contributes to the academic and cultural environment at Penn State.
II. Program Overview
The ARC Postdoctoral Fellowship runs from July through June each year, with an option for a second year. Fellows are required to be in residence and are not assigned teaching or administrative duties. Each Fellow is matched with a senior faculty mentor for guidance and support.
III. Fellowship Benefits
Fellows receive a competitive salary, health insurance, and funds for research and moving expenses. The ARC coordinates with a hosting department to provide office space, a computer, and necessary supplies.
IV. Eligibility and Application
Applicants must conduct research related to Africa and the African Diaspora. They should have earned their doctorate within the past five years or before the fellowship begins. Applications are accepted from all disciplines, with preference for those aligned with the College of the Liberal Arts. Applicants are encouraged to identify potential faculty mentors in Liberal Arts departments.
V. Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a committee including the ARC Director and Penn State faculty. Evaluation is based on research quality, relevance, alignment with ARC and Liberal Arts priorities, and scholarly potential.
VI. Expectations and Responsibilities
Fellows are expected to actively participate in Penn State’s scholarly community and ARC events. They will attend professional development workshops and present their research through lectures and conferences.
VII. Planning for the Fall/Spring Semesters
Fellows will participate in orientation activities, including welcome sessions and campus tours. They should review the academic calendar, set research goals, and schedule regular meetings with their mentors.
VIII. Travel Policies and Procedures
Fellows must follow Penn State’s travel policies, including procedures for reimbursement and expense reporting. Travel for research must be pre-approved by ARC. For details, refer to Penn State: All Policies | Penn State Policies
IX. ARC Community and Resources
Fellows are encouraged to engage with ARC-sponsored events and utilize Penn State’s library and research resources. Support services include counseling, health services, and diversity offices.
X. Contacts and Support
For assistance, Fellows may contact ARC administrative staff, their assigned mentors, or Liberal Arts department liaisons. Emergency and campus service contacts are also available through the university directory.