NRAO Jansky Fellowship 2027
NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory • United States
The 2027 Jansky Fellowship Program is now open. The program supports early-career researchers in radio astronomy, multi-wavelength science, instrumentation, computation, theory and related fields. The typical starting salary is US$75,000 per year, plus US$17,000 per year for travel and research expenses. Applicants of any nationality may apply, subject to the program’s PhD, career-stage and U.S. work-authorization requirements.
Program Overview
The Jansky Fellowship Program is administered by the NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO). Fellows pursue independent research connected to NRAO’s mission and facilities, including the Very Large Array, Very Long Baseline Array, Green Bank Observatory and related radio astronomy infrastructure.
Appointments may be based at NRAO/GBO sites in Socorro/Albuquerque, New Mexico; Charlottesville, Virginia; or Green Bank, West Virginia. In compelling cases, split appointments or non-resident appointments at U.S. universities may also be considered. The nominal start is September 2027, with a later start allowed no later than January 2028.
Who Can Apply?
- Early-career applicants of any nationality.
- A PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, physics, computer science, or a related field.
- Normally no more than five years of postdoctoral experience at the fellowship start; well-justified exceptions may be considered.
- Eligibility to work in the United States when employment begins.
- NRAO does not sponsor H-1B visas for this role. Qualified candidates may be eligible for J-1 Exchange Visitor sponsorship, subject to requirements.
Application fee: not listed by NRAO.
English-test requirement: no TOEFL, IELTS or other standardized English-test requirement is listed by NRAO.
Research Areas
- Radio astronomy and multi-wavelength science.
- Radio astronomy techniques and data analysis.
- Astronomical instrumentation.
- Scientific computing, algorithms and data-intensive research.
- Theory relevant to NRAO science.
- Very long baseline interferometry and Green Bank Telescope technology initiatives.
Applicants should explain how the proposed research connects to NRAO’s mission, facilities and chosen host location.
Salary, Research Funding and Benefits
- Typical starting salary: US$75,000/year.
- US$17,000/year for travel and other research expenses.
- US$3,000/year to eligible non-NRAO host institutions for local institutional expenses.
- Medical, dental and vision plans subject to eligibility.
- Paid leave and holidays.
- AUI retirement contribution equal to 10% of qualifying base pay, with no required employee contribution.
Required Application Documents
The main materials must be combined into a single PDF file:
- Cover letter naming the preferred host and second-choice NRAO/GBO site.
- Selection-criteria statement, maximum two pages, 12-point font, at least 0.75-inch margins.
- Curriculum vitae with full publication list.
- Previous and current research summary, maximum two pages including figures and references.
- Research proposal, maximum three pages including figures and references.
- For non-resident or split appointments, a host department-chair letter.
- Three reference letters, submitted separately under NRAO instructions.
How to Apply
- Review the official 2027 Jansky Fellowship requirements.
- Prepare the required PDF package and choose your preferred host arrangement.
- Open the AUI/NRAO Dayforce candidate portal and locate the 2027 Jansky Fellowships posting.
- Upload the complete application file and submit by October 28, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT.
- Ensure three referees submit letters by November 11, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT.
Important Dates
- August 28, 2026: 2027 careers posting available.
- October 28, 2026, 11:59 PM EDT: main application deadline.
- November 11, 2026, 11:59 PM EDT: reference-letter deadline.
- November–December 2026: review period.
- January 2027: virtual interviews.
- By end of January 2027: fellowship offers expected.
- September 2027: nominal start.
- January 2028: latest allowed start.
Selection Notes
The committee evaluates the excellence of the applicant and proposal, leadership potential and/or community service, synergy between the project and host location, and the mutual benefit to NRAO and the applicant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. NRAO states that applicants of any nationality may apply, provided they meet the academic, career-stage and work-authorization conditions.
How much does the fellowship pay?
The official 2027 information lists a typical starting salary of US$75,000 per year.
Is extra research funding provided?
Yes. Fellows receive US$17,000 per year for travel and other research expenses.
How long is the appointment?
Between two and three years.
Does NRAO sponsor visas?
H-1B sponsorship is not available. Qualified candidates may be eligible for J-1 Exchange Visitor sponsorship.
Is TOEFL or IELTS required?
No standardized English-language test requirement is listed in the official 2027 fellowship information.
Official Sources
Related Opportunities
Verification disclaimer: ScholarshipHubNow verified this guide against current primary NRAO sources on September 11, 2026. Facts not stated by NRAO are reported as “not listed.” Applicants should recheck the official fellowship page and careers portal before submitting.
