Frequently asked questions
For Applicants
Q: Can you connect me with faculty looking to host a Stanford Sustainability Accelerator Postdoctoral Fellow?
You will need to reach out to eligible mentors directly. You can identify faculty through our list of Stanford Accelerator affiliated faculty or Stanford department websites, and find contact information through Stanford Profiles.
Q: What specific topics in each flagship destination and crosscutting platform will be funded?
We welcome all proposed solutions to apply. We do have a guide for specific themes we are particularly interested in funding. But we are not limited to those in scope.
Q: How many fellows are selected every year?
Up to 4 fellows are awarded each year per flagship destination. As more flagship destinations are announced, we anticipate that the fellowship will grow in future years.
Q: What levels of project readiness are you seeking to fund?
We want fellows to enter the program with a project proposal in an area where they have already progressed an idea. In technology this would be something at a proof-of-concept level and in policy a framework which has been vetted with key stakeholders. During the program we will help fellows develop as entrepreneurs AND progress their projects because the goal of the program is developing people who can take ideas and create impact at scale.
Q: Can Stanford PhD students and alumni apply? Can postdoctoral scholars already working at Stanford apply?
Stanford PhDs, as well as postdoctoral scholars already working at Stanford who meet the eligibility requirements, can apply, and their applications will be considered. Keep in mind, one of the main goals of the fellowship is to bring new talent or new areas of research to Stanford. We will not be funding fellows to continue to work on accelerator-funded projects.
Q: Is it expected that all projects lead to a startup?
Our goal is to develop sustainability entrepreneurs, regardless of career path. So, we are quite flexible to future career development of our fellows.
Q: Can I have additional letters of recommendation submitted on my behalf? Can they come from the same institution?
Please submit only the reference letters as outlined in the application.
Q: Is this a full-time position and is it only in-person work?
Yes, this is a full-time position performed in person at Stanford University.
Q: Is housing provided by the fellowship program?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide housing. We can, however, refer fellows to the housing information for postdocs that Stanford provides.
Q: Can I get an extension and submit my application after the deadline?
To ensure fairness in the process, applicant materials must be received by the deadline to be considered. If you have any difficulties uploading your application materials, please contact us at fellowship_accelerator@stanford.edu immediately so we can assist you.
Q: How do I know my application is complete and my nomination and letters of recommendation have been received?
After submitting your application, you may track your application in the Slideroom system.
Q: Will I be notified if I am not selected to receive a fellowship?
All applicants will be notified whether they are awarded a fellowship or not. We anticipate making the final selections by February 28, 2025.
Q: Will I receive feedback on my application?
No, unfortunately, due to the volume of requests, we cannot offer additional feedback on every submitted application and proposal.
Q: May I apply to the program a second time if I am not successful at first?
Yes, you may apply as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria in effect at the time of application.
Q: I have thoroughly read the Stanford Sustainability Accelerator Postdoctoral Fellow web pages and these FAQs, and I still have a question. What should I do?
Further inquiries may be directed to fellowship_accelerator@stanford.edu.
For Mentors
Q: Can mentors nominate more than one candidate during each fellowship call season?
Each mentor can nominate no more than two candidates each year.
Q: Are mentors limited to co-hosting only one fellow simultaneously?
Each mentor can co-host more than one fellow simultaneously.
Q: Does hosting an Accelerator Fellow affect my chances of getting RFP funding?
Our view is that there is not just one solution for each flagship destination. And we will look to fund all realistic, feasible, and scalable solutions that can be developed successfully here at Stanford. A potential Accelerator Fellow should propose their own ideas and solutions. If there is overlap with an RFP that you have submitted, we may reach out to you to ensure that funds are not ‘double-dipped’ so that we can fund as many project ideas as possible.