2025 Frank C. Munson Institute of American Maritime Studies
Mystic Seaport MuseumApplications are due on March 14, 2025.
For more than 60 years, the Frank C. Munson Institute at Mystic Seaport Museum has drawn graduate students, faculty, and independent scholars to its residential, six-week-long summer program in maritime studies. During the summer of 2025, the Munson Institute will offer two concurrent courses focused on the American maritime experience. These courses will trace U.S. maritime heritage from before “America” to the present, exploring maritime communities, cultures, and industries through lecture, discussion, and independent research.
2025 Munson Fellows will participate in two concurrent courses focusing on American maritime history and complete an independent research project. Please visit the Munson Institute website for more details about course work, and to view syllabi from previous years.
Applicants for the 2025 summer session may apply for one of nine fellowships. Each of the resident fellowships, set to run from June 23 – August 1, will be supported with a $2,400 stipend, accommodations in museum-owned housing, and a book purchase stipend. Applicants with specific research and writing projects are encouraged to apply separately for a Paul Cuffe Memorial Fellowship for additional funding of up to $2,400.
We encourage applications from members of the region’s native peoples and black communities.
Desired Qualifications:
- These fellowships are most particularly intended for junior faculty, graduate students, and advanced undergraduate students
- Must be qualified to work at a graduate level
- Experience pursuing research with primary documents and original sources
Compensation: $2,400 stipend, free housing, book allowance
Application Requirements:
- Resume or C.V. (1-4 pages)
- Application Essay (2-4 pages): Essays should address the following questions:
- What are your personal and academic interests, and how do they relate to the Munson Institute’s topic and themes?
- What qualifications, experiences, and/or knowledge will you bring to the Munson Institute?
- What specific collections at Mystic Seaport Museum – or nearby institutions – are you interested in exploring during the Munson Institute?
- How will participating in the Munson Institute further your personal, academic, or professional goals?