The Institute for Ethics and the Common Good (ECG) invites applications for its 2027–28 Faculty Fellowship program. Sponsored by a transformative grant from the John Templeton Foundation, we are seeking
five scholars to join a vibrant, interdisciplinary cohort dedicated to a crucial theme:
Love and Ethics. We welcome projects from scholars that investigate how love intersects with ethics, whether through foundational moral theory, applied and real-world contexts, or broader cultural, social, and political questions.
For futher explanation of this topic, including a list of potential research topics related to it, please see https://ethics.nd.edu/fellowships-and-grants/faculty/.
We welcome proposals from scholars working on substantial research projects related to this topic. Applicants from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply, including - but not limited to - philosophy, theology, psychology, sociology, political science, law, literature, and the arts.
The program is open to U.S. and international faculty at any career stage, from assistant to full professor. Scholars at the postdoctoral level who have a strong record of accomplishment will also be considered. The fellowship is also open to independent scholars, journalists, artists, and others whose work aligns meaningfully with the fellowship theme.
Fellows will live in residence at the University of Notre Dame for the academic year. Each fellowship includes up to $80,000 in funding, subsidized housing, and a research allowance. Fellows will also participate in a vibrant interdisciplinary community and take part in regular seminars and collaborative events.
Qualifications
Faculty Fellowships are open to scholars engaged in substantial research projects that examine questions at the intersection of love and ethics.
We welcome applications from scholars across all academic disciplines, including - but not limited to - philosophy, theology, psychology, sociology, political science, law, literature, and the arts.
Although most Faculty Fellows hold appointments at colleges or universities, the fellowship is also open to independent scholars, journalists, artists, and others whose work engages meaningfully with the fellowship theme. Postdoctoral scholars with a strong record of achievement are likewise encouraged to apply.
Most fellowships will be awarded to scholars from outside the University of Notre Dame. However, Notre Dame faculty are eligible to apply, and a limited number of fellowships may be awarded to internal applicants.
We welcome applications from scholars based outside the United States, as well as from individuals representing a wide range of faith traditions and cultural backgrounds.
Fellows are expected to remain in residence for the duration of their fellowship. While preference will be given to applicants who are available for the full academic year (August–May), we will also consider applicants who are available for only the Fall semester (August–December). Such applicants, if selected, will receive a semester-long fellowship.
Fellows are expected to be free of their regular commitments and to have their primary office at the Institute so they may devote themselves full time to the work outlined in their research proposal and participate fully in the community of scholars at the Institute. They are also expected to attend weekly seminars, present their research twice during these seminars, and attend ECG retreats, communications workshops, and other special events.
Application Instructions
Applications for Faculty Fellowships must be submitted through Interfolio and should include the following:
- Completed online application form
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae (no more than four pages, single-spaced)
- Proposal abstract (no more than 400 words)
- Fellowship research proposal (no more than six pages double-spaced; research proposals may include a works-cited or bibliography page, which does not count toward the six-page limit). In the research proposal, applicants should provide an explanation of the project they intend to pursue at ECG, including:
- How the proposed research aligns with the research theme and mission of the Institute
- Preliminary objectives for the research to be conducted (i.e., whether the research might result in a book, journal article, art work, etc.)
- The proposed work plan (including what research or work has already been accomplished, what will be done during the fellowship period, the methodology to be employed, and the organization of the scholarly project, book, or other work)
- Public-engagement proposal (no more than two pages, double-spaced). In the public-engagement proposal, applicants should explain how they plan to engage a public audience with their proposed research project (e.g., through a newspaper op-ed, public discussion, podcast episode, etc.).
- Two letters of reference. The letters should address the strength of the applicant’s proposed research project, its fit with the theme of Love and Ethics, and the applicant’s collaborative potential and collegiality. (See FAQ page for common questions about letters of reference.)
- (Optional) Up to two pages of non-text materials supporting the research proposal
Proposals will be evaluated on the basis of their potential for research impact, fit with the theme, and fit with the Institute’s mission.
Finalists will be asked to be available for a brief Zoom conversation with committee members during the final stage of the selection process.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.
Background Check
This appointment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Applicants will be asked to identify all felony convictions and/or pending felony charges. Felony convictions do not automatically bar an individual from employment. Each case will be examined separately to determine the appropriateness of employment in the particular position. Failure to be forthcoming or dishonesty with respect to felony disclosures can result in the disqualification of a candidate. The full procedure can be viewed at https://facultyhandbook.nd.edu/?id=link-73597.
