Jack and Doris Shadbolt Fellowship in the Humanities 2027–28 at Simon Fraser University: Eligibility, Benefits, Application Process and Deadline
The Jack and Doris Shadbolt Fellowship in the Humanities 2027–28 at Simon Fraser University (SFU) is now accepting applications from emerging and established academic scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers working in the humanities and arts.
Hosted by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada, the fellowship provides an opportunity for talented and engaged individuals to develop a meaningful project within an academic and intellectual environment.
The fellowship supports creative practice and publicly engaged scholarship while encouraging applicants to explore major concerns affecting society and contribute to conversations around decolonization, Indigenization, culture, creativity and social change.
For scholars, artists, writers, knowledge keepers and practitioners whose work connects intellectual inquiry with creative practice or public engagement, the Shadbolt Fellowship offers an opportunity to develop an important project while becoming part of the Simon Fraser University community.
About the Jack and Doris Shadbolt Fellowship
The Jack and Doris Shadbolt Fellowship in the Humanities is supported by the Jack and Doris Shadbolt Endowment for the Humanities.
The fellowship reflects the vision of Jack and Doris Shadbolt, who viewed the humanities and arts as deeply connected to the natural and social worlds inhabited by artists, scholars and thinkers.
The programme seeks to promote the humanities and arts as important sites of:
- Creative practice
- Critical engagement
- Public scholarship
- Cultural reflection
- Intellectual inquiry
- Social engagement
- Decolonization
- Indigenization
- Creative world-making
- Engagement with major concerns of contemporary society
Rather than restricting the fellowship to traditional academic research, SFU takes a broad approach to the humanities and arts. Potential fellows may be academic scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners or writers.
This makes the opportunity relevant to individuals working across a wide range of intellectual, artistic, cultural and publicly engaged fields.
2027–28 Fellowship Opportunity
The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Simon Fraser University is inviting applications for the 2027–28 academic year.
Applicants are expected to propose a project that they intend to undertake during the fellowship.
The proposed project should be clearly explained and demonstrate why the applicant’s work would benefit from a fellowship at Simon Fraser University.
Applicants should clearly communicate:
- The project they intend to undertake.
- The purpose and importance of the project.
- What they hope to accomplish during the fellowship.
- How the project relates to the humanities and/or arts.
- Their preferred primary unit affiliation within FASS.
- Any desired secondary affiliation within SFU.
- The length of fellowship they are requesting.
- Why the requested fellowship duration is appropriate for the project.
Who Can Apply?
The Shadbolt Fellowship is intended for emerging or established engaged academic scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers in the humanities and arts.
Potential applicants may include people whose work involves:
- Humanities research
- Arts and creative practice
- Writing
- Cultural knowledge
- Public scholarship
- Community-based intellectual work
- Creative research
- Socially engaged artistic practice
- Critical humanities scholarship
- Indigenous knowledge and cultural practice
- Interdisciplinary humanities and arts projects
- Publicly engaged research and creative work
The fellowship is therefore not limited exclusively to conventional university academics.
Emerging Applicants
The programme welcomes emerging scholars, artists, writers, practitioners and knowledge keepers.
Applicants who are at an earlier stage of their careers may be considered if they have a strong project and demonstrate the experience and preparation necessary to undertake it.
Established Applicants
Established scholars, artists, practitioners, writers and knowledge keepers are also eligible to apply.
The programme seeks a diverse group of resident fellows representing different stages of professional and intellectual development.
International Applicants
The official announcement does not specify a nationality or citizenship restriction.
Therefore, the opportunity is not presented as being limited to Canadian citizens or residents.
Applicants from outside Canada may apply if they satisfy the fellowship’s eligibility requirements and are suitable candidates.
This means applicants from Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, the Caribbean, Oceania and other regions may consider applying.
International applicants should, however, separately consider any immigration, visa, travel or residency requirements that may apply if they are selected.
Indigenous Applicants Are Particularly Encouraged
The Shadbolt Fellowship has a specific commitment to decolonization and Indigenization.
SFU states that the programme especially welcomes Indigenous applicants.
The fellowship is not restricted to Indigenous applicants, but the university’s commitment means that Indigenous scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers are particularly encouraged to submit applications.
Applicants whose proposed projects engage meaningfully with Indigenous knowledge, decolonization, Indigenization or related areas may find strong alignment with the programme’s stated mission.
Commitment to Equity, Inclusion and Diversity
The selection of resident Shadbolt Fellows will be guided by considerations of equity, inclusion and diversity.
SFU also aims to ensure that its group of resident fellows represents a broad range of humanities and arts areas.
The fellowship seeks to include:
- Indigenous applicants
- Emerging scholars and practitioners
- Established scholars and practitioners
- Academic scholars
- Artists
- Knowledge keepers
- Practitioners
- Writers
- Applicants working across different humanities and arts disciplines
Candidates belonging to underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.
These groups include:
- Indigenous peoples
- Persons with disabilities
- Racialized persons
- Women
- People representing gender and sexual diversity
Applicants should nevertheless focus on presenting a strong project, relevant experience and a clear explanation of why SFU is an appropriate environment for their work.
What Does the Fellowship Support?
The Shadbolt Fellowship is designed to support projects that contribute to the humanities and arts as important spaces for creative practice and critical engagement with major concerns of our times.
The programme aims to support work that can help society imagine better ways of understanding and shaping the world.
Supported approaches may include:
- Creative arts
- Humanities research
- Publicly engaged scholarship
- Critical inquiry
- Cultural work
- Intellectual engagement
- Creative practice
- Socially engaged projects
- Decolonization
- Indigenization
- Interdisciplinary work
Applicants should focus on the project they intend to undertake during the fellowship rather than simply describing their previous accomplishments.
Their previous work should instead demonstrate their preparation and ability to successfully undertake the proposed project.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application package containing the required documents.
The application should include:
1. Completed Application Form
Applicants must complete the official Shadbolt Fellowship Application Form for the 2027–28 academic year.
The application form provides the required structure for the submission and should be completed accurately and thoroughly.
2. Current CV
Applicants must provide a current curriculum vitae.
The CV should clearly demonstrate the applicant’s academic, artistic, professional, creative and/or public engagement background.
Depending on the applicant’s field, relevant information may include:
- Education
- Academic appointments
- Research experience
- Publications
- Books
- Articles
- Creative works
- Exhibitions
- Performances
- Professional experience
- Awards
- Fellowships
- Community engagement
- Public scholarship
- Artistic achievements
- Presentations
- Relevant projects
- Other professional or intellectual accomplishments
3. Cover Letter
Applicants must also submit a cover letter.
The cover letter should specifically address three areas identified by Simon Fraser University:
- The project the applicant intends to undertake during the fellowship.
- The desired primary unit affiliation in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and, where applicable, a secondary unit affiliation.
- The length of fellowship desired and why that duration is appropriate.
Applicants should therefore avoid submitting a generic cover letter.
The letter should be tailored specifically to the Shadbolt Fellowship and explain the applicant’s proposed project, experience and connection to SFU.
Choosing an SFU Primary Affiliation
An important part of the application is identifying the academic unit where the applicant would like to be primarily affiliated.
The primary affiliation should be within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
Applicants should consider which department or programme best matches their proposed project and intellectual interests.
A suitable affiliation can help demonstrate that the applicant has carefully considered how their work would fit within SFU’s academic environment.
Secondary Unit Affiliation
Applicants may also identify a secondary affiliation if appropriate.
Importantly, SFU states that secondary units may be any unit within Simon Fraser University and are not restricted to FASS.
This creates an opportunity for applicants whose projects are interdisciplinary to identify another relevant academic unit that could contribute to their work.
Applicants should only identify a secondary affiliation where it has a meaningful connection to the proposed project.
Contacting an SFU Department Before Applying
Before submitting an application, candidates are strongly encouraged to contact the FASS department or unit with which they wish to work.
This is an important preparatory step.
Applicants can use the opportunity to discuss:
- Their proposed project
- The relevance of the project to the department
- Potential academic connections
- Their proposed primary affiliation
- Possible secondary affiliations
- Interdisciplinary opportunities
- The fit between their project and SFU’s academic environment
Candidates can consult the official FASS departments and programmes list to identify the most appropriate unit.
Fellowship Duration
Applicants must indicate the length of fellowship they would like.
They must also explain why the requested duration is appropriate.
When determining the requested length, applicants should consider:
- The scope of their project
- Research requirements
- Creative development
- Writing requirements
- Public engagement activities
- Collaboration
- Access to university resources
- Expected project outcomes
- The amount of work that can realistically be completed
The requested fellowship length should therefore be justified by the proposed project rather than selected without explanation.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2027–28 Shadbolt Fellowship is:
October 23, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
Applicants should ensure that their complete application package is submitted before the stated deadline.
Applications should be emailed to:
shadbolt_fellows@sfu.ca
Simon Fraser University states that a single PDF is preferred.
Applicants should also include their name in the filename.
For example:
FirstName_LastName_Shaddbolt_Fellowship_2027-28.pdf
Applicants should follow the official application instructions when preparing and submitting their documents.
Application Timeline
The official timeline for the 2027–28 fellowship is as follows:
September 21, 2026 — Online Q&A Information Session
An online question-and-answer information session will be held on September 21, 2026.
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Format: Online via Zoom
This session provides prospective applicants with an opportunity to learn more about the fellowship and ask questions before submitting their applications.
October 23, 2026 — Application Deadline
The complete application must be submitted by:
9:00 a.m. on October 23, 2026.
Applicants should avoid waiting until the final minutes to submit their applications.
Late November — Shortlisted Candidates Notified
Shortlisted candidates are expected to be notified in late November.
December 7, 2026 — Reference Letters Deadline
For shortlisted candidates, reference letters must be submitted by December 7, 2026.
Applicants should therefore consider potential referees before the application deadline so they are prepared if shortlisted.
Important Eligibility Restrictions
Although the fellowship has broad eligibility in terms of professional background, SFU has identified important restrictions.
Current SFU Students
Individuals who are students at Simon Fraser University are ineligible for the fellowship.
Continuing SFU Appointments
Individuals who hold a continuing appointment at Simon Fraser University are also ineligible.
Relationship to Degree Requirements
SFU states that the project proposed for the fellowship will normally not be related to work being undertaken to fulfill the requirements of a degree programme in which the applicant is enrolled.
The fellowship project should therefore generally be independent from an existing degree requirement.
What Could Make an Application Strong?
While applicants should follow the official requirements rather than trying to predict the selection committee, a strong application should be clear, focused and closely aligned with the goals of the fellowship.
Present a Clearly Defined Project
Explain exactly what you want to accomplish during the fellowship.
The selection committee should be able to understand the project’s purpose, objectives, intellectual direction or creative contribution.
Demonstrate Humanities or Arts Relevance
Clearly explain how the proposed work contributes to the humanities and/or arts.
Explain the Broader Significance
Where appropriate, demonstrate how the project engages with important cultural, social, intellectual or public issues.
Show Why SFU Is a Good Fit
Explain why Simon Fraser University is an appropriate environment for the proposed work.
Identify the relevant primary unit and, where applicable, secondary affiliation.
Demonstrate Feasibility
The project should be realistic within the fellowship period requested.
Applicants should demonstrate that they have thought carefully about what they can accomplish during their time as a fellow.
Connect Your Experience to the Project
Your CV and cover letter should establish a logical connection between your previous experience and the proposed fellowship project.
Your past work should demonstrate that you have the skills, knowledge or creative experience necessary to undertake the project successfully.
Recommended Preparation Checklist
Applicants can prepare for the competition by following these steps:
- Read the official fellowship application form carefully.
- Develop a clear and meaningful fellowship project.
- Identify the most appropriate FASS department or unit.
- Consider whether a secondary SFU affiliation would strengthen the project.
- Contact the relevant department before submitting the application.
- Update your CV.
- Prepare a fellowship-specific cover letter.
- Clearly explain your desired fellowship duration.
- Review all eligibility restrictions.
- Complete the application form carefully.
- Combine the required documents into a single PDF where possible.
- Include your name in the PDF filename.
- Email the completed application to shadbolt_fellows@sfu.ca.
- Submit before October 23, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
- If shortlisted, ensure that reference letters are submitted by December 7, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shadbolt Fellowship a scholarship?
No. It is a fellowship supporting emerging and established scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers in the humanities and arts.
Who is the fellowship designed for?
The fellowship is designed for engaged academic scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers working in the humanities and arts.
Can international applicants apply?
The announcement does not specify a nationality restriction, so the opportunity is not limited to Canadian applicants. International candidates may apply provided they satisfy the stated eligibility requirements.
Are Indigenous applicants encouraged to apply?
Yes. SFU explicitly states that the programme especially welcomes Indigenous applicants and supports work connected to decolonization and Indigenization.
Can current SFU students apply?
No. Individuals who are students at SFU are ineligible.
Can someone with a continuing SFU appointment apply?
No. Individuals who hold a continuing appointment at SFU are ineligible.
Do applicants have to be university professors?
No. The fellowship specifically includes artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers in addition to academic scholars.
Does the primary affiliation have to be within FASS?
Yes. Applicants are asked to identify their desired primary unit affiliation within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.
Can the secondary affiliation be outside FASS?
Yes. SFU states that secondary units may be any unit within Simon Fraser University.
Should applicants contact a department before applying?
Yes. SFU strongly encourages candidates to contact the FASS department or unit with which they wish to work before submitting their applications.
What documents are required?
Applicants must submit:
- A fully completed application form
- A current CV
- A cover letter
A single PDF is preferred.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is October 23, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
When will shortlisted candidates be notified?
Shortlisted candidates are expected to be notified in late November.
When are reference letters due?
Reference letters for shortlisted candidates are due December 7, 2026.
Official Application Information
Prospective applicants should carefully review the official Simon Fraser University fellowship information and application materials before submitting their applications.
Official 2027–28 application form
More fellowship available on the OFY Website HERE
Conclusion
The Jack and Doris Shadbolt Fellowship in the Humanities 2027–28 at Simon Fraser University provides an important opportunity for emerging and established academic scholars, artists, knowledge keepers, practitioners and writers to develop meaningful work within a university environment dedicated to the humanities and arts.
The fellowship stands out because of its broad understanding of who can contribute to the humanities and arts. Applicants do not have to fit exclusively within the traditional academic model, as the programme welcomes artists, writers, practitioners and knowledge keepers alongside academic scholars.
The programme also places strong emphasis on creative practice, publicly engaged scholarship, critical engagement with major concerns of our time, decolonization and Indigenization. Indigenous applicants are particularly encouraged to apply, while candidates from underrepresented groups are also strongly encouraged to consider the opportunity.
Applicants should prepare a complete application consisting of the official application form, a current CV and a tailored cover letter. The cover letter should explain the proposed fellowship project, desired primary and secondary affiliations and the requested fellowship duration.
Candidates are also strongly encouraged to contact their preferred FASS department or unit before submitting their application.
The key deadline to remember is October 23, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Shortlisted candidates are expected to be notified in late November, while reference letters for shortlisted candidates will be due on December 7, 2026.
For individuals whose work combines humanities, arts, culture, scholarship, creativity or public engagement, the Shadbolt Fellowship could provide a valuable platform to develop an ambitious project, engage with an academic community and contribute to broader intellectual, cultural and social conversations.
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