We are interested in bold thinkers and ambitious researchers; those who are driven to push the boundaries of knowledge around diverse intelligences, are humble enough to seek mentorship, who are inspired to engage in interdisciplinary research, expand their professional networks, and develop their leadership capabilities. 

The program will require a champion pair of senior researchers, with at least one related to the DI community, to nominate high potential junior colleagues for this fellowship and grant opportunity. Champions are expected to work together to identify ideal candidates. They are also expected to support their fellowship nominee, if selected, through the application and grant delivery process, and serve as a resource for them during their fellowship period.

For this round we are interested in tackling the question of what constitutes intelligence from across a wide spectrum of disciplines, including psychology, philosophy, cognition, AI, sociology, ethology, genetics, comparative studies, religion, and related fields. This fellowship seeks to position fellows as influential voices in advancing groundbreaking insights into the practical, moral, ethical, and spiritual implications of a growing appreciation for the diversity of intelligences, whether they be, human, non human, machine, or cosmic.

The selected finalists will be eligible for up to $350,000 USD in direct costs. The fellow will have up to $200,000 in unrestricted grant funding to support their research. These funds may be applied toward operational research costs, course buy-outs and summer salary, trainee support, administrative support, conference travel, dissemination and other reasonable expenses. The remaining up to $150,000 of the award is to be split across the other components of the fellowship which includes subawards, champion honoraria, support for fellow organized convenings, and travel to Diverse Intelligences events.

Successful fellows will join a thriving community of research that aims to foster interdisciplinary understanding and generate insights into the applications of research on intelligences for societal benefit, preparing them to address some of humanity’s most profound questions.

Overview

Value

$350,000 direct costs to the Fellow (plus up to 15% overhead)

Duration

Grant period: 30 months
Fellowship period: 36 months

Nomination deadline

March 5th 2025

Nominate!

• Download the Guidance Document here
• See Forms and Instructions
• Access Nomination Portal

Champion pairs are a team of two researchers that are committed to mentoring their nominee if selected. To be an eligible champion team:

• At least one champion must be connected to the existing Diverse Intelligences Initiative and community (to have a good grasp on the initiative, community and interest of the Foundation).
• Both need to be tenured researchers (If they have left academia they must have had tenure prior to leaving).

• Between the two champions, must represent or be active in at least two disciplines.

   

Nominee

The nominee will be the focus of the activities and the awardee of the grant. It is expected that they will be leading the fellowship activities. To be an eligible nominee, the person: 

• Should be an Assistant professor (or global equivalent) pre-tenure, or within the first (active) 6 years of their position.
• Cannot have been the PhD student of either champion.
• Cannot have been a postdoc or direct employee of either champion within the last 2 years (collaborators are acceptable).
• Should engage in research related to the themes of Diverse Intelligences discussed above
• Display enthusiasm for connecting with researchers working in another research area or discipline to help expand their vision and perspective.
• Intend to remain at their institution for the fellowship grant period.

If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, please contact us at diverseintelligences@templetonworldcharity.org