The Katharine H. Putnam Fellowships in Plant Science are made possible by the generosity of George and Nancy Putnam through the Putnam Fellows Fund.
For questions about the award, Arboretum resources, research proposal or submission process, contact the selection committee (Email).
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University and the Arnold Arboretum view equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Other Information/Terms & Condition
Fellowships are awarded through a competitive review process. To be considered for an award, online applications should include the following:
Cover letter. The cover letter should clearly state (i) the applicant’s interest in the program; (ii) the length of the term desired by the applicant and potential start-date; and (iii) the applicant’s contact information.
Research statement. The statement should be no longer than 4 pages, single-spaced, and should describe the research project the applicant proposes to conduct as a Putnam Fellow. The statement should describe (i) the nature and scope of the proposed research project; (ii) the approach and methods to be employed; (iii) how the living collections of the Arnold Arboretum would be utilized; and (iv) how the project will advance knowledge about the plant kingdom. References should be included but do not count as part of the 4-page limit.
Research budget. A modest level of funding (up to $10,000 annually) is available for research, travel, professional expenses and relocation to Boston. Applicants should submit a simple, 1-page budget that includes a paragraph detailing all laboratory and equipment requirements and an itemized budget by year for all research, travel and professional costs. Travel expenses for professional conferences as well as up to $2,500 for initial relocation to Boston should be included in the total budget. The budget should accurately reflect and justify what is required for the proposed project.
Curriculum vitae.
Three letters of recommendation. As part of the online submission, you must send a request to the referee to submit a letter of recommendation (via the “request” section). The referee will be automatically sent an email with a link to an online submission form where they will upload a letter of recommendation. It is highly recommended that you contact your referee prior to sending the request. Please inform the referee to expect an email from Admin@communityforce.com with instructions for submitting a recommendation letter. Each referee must upload their letter of recommendation via the link by January 18 at 5:00 p.m. ET.
