DHS Graduate Research Opportunities, and Benefits for Doctoral Students in the United States

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship 2027 is an exciting research opportunity sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for eligible doctoral students and recent PhD graduates in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and other designated disciplines relevant to homeland security. The fellowship provides a total stipend of $90,000 for a 12-month appointment, a health insurance allowance of up to $550 per month, potential relocation assistance, and up to $5,000 in support for academic conference attendance, professional development, and research-related travel.

Administered through the DHS Science and Technology Directorate’s Office of University Programs, the fellowship aims to strengthen the nation’s scientific and technical workforce by supporting advanced graduate education and applied research that contributes to the safety, security, and resilience of the United States. It is designed to help develop a new generation of highly skilled researchers whose expertise can address complex national security challenges and support the Department of Homeland Security’s mission.

Through this program, selected participants will have opportunities to undertake applied research at federal research facilities and other homeland security-focused organizations across the United States. They can apply their academic knowledge to practical research challenges, collaborate with experienced researchers and operational personnel, and build professional relationships that may contribute to their long-term careers.

The fellowship is particularly relevant to doctoral researchers working in areas such as cybersecurity, engineering, computer and data sciences, environmental sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, life and medical sciences, and social and behavioral sciences, provided their academic disciplines and research interests align with the designated DHS research areas.

However, applicants must carefully review the eligibility requirements before applying. The program is open only to United States citizens who meet the doctoral-degree, GPA, age, and full-time participation requirements.

The application deadline is November 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, while letters of recommendation must be submitted by November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

1. Overview of the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship 2027

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship is a research-focused program intended to support doctoral-level education and develop scientific and technical expertise relevant to the responsibilities of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The program recognizes the importance of research and innovation in addressing emerging security challenges. By supporting researchers in designated academic disciplines, it aims to strengthen the pool of highly trained professionals who can contribute to homeland security research, technological development, and related national priorities.

The fellowship also provides participants with opportunities to apply their education and research skills in professional settings beyond the traditional academic environment. Through placements at federal research facilities and other homeland security-focused institutions, fellows can gain experience with research activities that support real-world operational and technical needs.

The following table summarizes the main details of the opportunity.

Applicants should use the reference code DHS-GRF-2027-Summer when searching for the opportunity or contacting the program administrators.

2. About the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Graduate Research Fellowship

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is responsible for a broad range of activities intended to protect the United States, its people, critical infrastructure, borders, and essential systems. Scientific research, technological innovation, and specialized expertise are important to carrying out these responsibilities.

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship supports the development of researchers whose academic training can contribute to these priorities.

The program is sponsored by the DHS Science and Technology Directorate’s Office of University Programs, which supports education and research activities intended to strengthen the scientific and technical capabilities relevant to homeland security.

The fellowship provides a pathway for eligible doctoral researchers and recent PhD graduates to gain experience in applied research environments. Rather than focusing exclusively on theoretical study, participants will have opportunities to apply their academic knowledge and technical skills to research projects connected to homeland security needs.

These experiences can help participants understand how scientific findings, technological solutions, analytical methods, and interdisciplinary research can support public safety and national resilience.

The program also seeks to increase the number of U.S. citizens trained in STEM disciplines that are important to the Department of Homeland Security’s mission.

By bringing researchers into contact with federal research facilities, technical experts, and operational professionals, the fellowship aims to help develop a skilled workforce capable of addressing present and future security challenges.

For additional information about the sponsoring office, applicants can visit the official DHS Science and Technology Directorate Office of University Programs website.

3. Objectives of the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship Program

The fellowship has several major objectives that guide its research and professional development activities.

Strengthening the scientific and technical workforce

One of the program’s central objectives is to develop a new generation of researchers with expertise in fields relevant to homeland security.

Advanced scientific and technical knowledge is essential for understanding emerging threats, improving security systems, protecting infrastructure, and developing innovative solutions to complex challenges.

By supporting doctoral-level researchers and recent PhD graduates, the fellowship helps cultivate expertise that can contribute to the Department of Homeland Security’s long-term workforce needs.

Supporting advanced graduate education

The fellowship supports graduate education by providing eligible researchers with an opportunity to apply their academic training in practical research settings.

Participants can strengthen their understanding of how academic knowledge translates into research activities, technical applications, and solutions for real-world problems.

The program can be particularly valuable for researchers seeking to complement their doctoral education with experience in federal research environments and homeland security-focused institutions.

Advancing applied research

Applied research is an important component of the fellowship.

Participants will have opportunities to engage in research activities connected to DHS priorities, potentially working with federal research facilities and other organizations conducting homeland security-focused scientific and technical work.

This experience can help fellows develop research methods, analytical abilities, problem-solving skills, and a better understanding of how scientific and technological work contributes to national security.

Supporting safety, security, and resilience

The fellowship supports research that contributes to the safety, security, and resilience of the United States.

These priorities encompass a wide range of issues, including cybersecurity, border protection, critical infrastructure, emerging threats, lawful trade and travel, and physical security.

Researchers whose expertise aligns with these areas may have opportunities to contribute to work that supports the Department’s mission.

Building long-term professional relationships

The program also emphasizes professional connections.

Participants can establish relationships with researchers, operational personnel, and research facilities across the Homeland Security Enterprise.

These connections can provide opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from experienced professionals, and develop relationships that may remain valuable throughout their research and professional careers.

4. Research Areas Supported by the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship accepts applications from doctoral students and recent PhD graduates in designated academic disciplines relevant to the Department’s mission.

The supplied program information identifies several broad areas of study.

4.1 Business

Applicants from relevant business disciplines may be considered where their academic background and research align with designated DHS priorities.

Research involving analytical methods, organizational systems, management, or other relevant areas may contribute to understanding and improving homeland security operations.

Candidates should verify that their particular specialization is eligible under the current program guidelines.

4.2 Chemistry and Materials Sciences

Chemistry and materials science contribute to research involving substances, material properties, chemical processes, and technological applications.

Depending on the research project, expertise in these disciplines may support investigations related to safety, security, detection technologies, and other scientific or technical challenges.

Doctoral researchers in these fields should explain how their research interests relate to the fellowship’s designated priorities.

4.3 Communications and Graphics Design

The supplied eligibility list includes communications and graphics design.

Candidates in these disciplines should review the official program requirements to determine whether their specific doctoral research area and expertise meet the fellowship’s criteria.

Eligibility depends on the designated research needs rather than the discipline label alone.

4.4 Computer, Information, and Data Sciences

Computer science, information sciences, and data sciences are important areas for modern research and technological development.

Relevant expertise may include computing systems, information analysis, data management, computational methods, and other areas connected to designated DHS research projects.

Cybersecurity-related research may also be relevant where it meets the program’s requirements.

Candidates should describe their technical expertise and research interests clearly in their application.

4.5 Earth and Geosciences

Earth and geosciences involve the study of the physical environment, geological systems, and related processes.

Research in these fields may be relevant to environmental assessment, geographic analysis, and other scientific challenges connected to homeland security.

Applicants should confirm that their doctoral specialization aligns with the program’s current research priorities.

4.6 Engineering

Engineering is an important field for developing and evaluating technologies, systems, and infrastructure.

Depending on the research project, engineering expertise may contribute to infrastructure protection, technological innovation, systems analysis, safety, and other homeland security needs.

Eligible doctoral researchers should demonstrate how their engineering background and research experience could contribute to relevant projects.

4.7 Environmental and Marine Sciences

Environmental and marine sciences contribute to understanding natural systems, environmental conditions, and marine environments.

Research in these areas may be relevant to particular homeland security challenges involving environmental assessment, coastal environments, and other designated research priorities.

Candidates should ensure that their research aligns with the program’s stated eligibility criteria.

4.8 Life, Health, and Medical Sciences

Life sciences, health sciences, and medical sciences encompass a wide range of research disciplines.

Depending on the designated project, relevant expertise may contribute to scientific investigations, health-related research, biological systems, and other technical areas connected to homeland security.

Applicants should identify the relationship between their research interests and the fellowship’s objectives.

4.9 Mathematics and Statistics

Mathematics and statistics support quantitative analysis, modelling, forecasting, data interpretation, and other research methods.

These disciplines can be important for investigating complex problems, evaluating evidence, and developing analytical approaches to scientific and technical challenges.

Doctoral candidates in mathematics and statistics should describe their research methods and their relevance to the designated DHS research areas.

4.10 Other Non-Science and Engineering Disciplines

The supplied eligibility information also includes other non-science and engineering disciplines.

This category should not be interpreted as meaning that every academic discipline is automatically eligible. Applicants must still demonstrate that their doctoral research and academic background meet the official program requirements.

Candidates should consult the program administrators if they are uncertain whether their specialization qualifies.

4.11 Physics

Physics contributes to research into physical systems, scientific principles, and technological applications.

Depending on the project, expertise in physics may support research involving measurement, detection, materials, instrumentation, or other technical areas relevant to homeland security.

Applicants should verify that their research interests align with a designated area of need.

4.12 Science and Engineering-Related Disciplines

The program also identifies science and engineering-related fields.

This category may cover relevant interdisciplinary expertise, but applicants should confirm the acceptability of their specific doctoral program with the official program administrators.

4.13 Social and Behavioral Sciences

Social and behavioral sciences examine human behavior, social systems, and related questions.

Research in these fields may be relevant to designated homeland security priorities where understanding people, communities, organizational behavior, or social processes is important.

Applicants should explain how their academic work relates to an eligible research area.

Important: The disciplines listed above reflect the supplied opportunity information. Inclusion in a broad category does not guarantee that every degree program or research specialization qualifies. Applicants should confirm their eligibility using the current official application information.

5. Homeland Security Mission Areas Addressed by the Fellowship

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship is intended to support research relevant to the Department of Homeland Security’s responsibilities.

The supplied description identifies the following mission areas.

Enforcing and administering immigration laws

Research relevant to immigration law enforcement and administration may support the development of analytical, scientific, or technological approaches to the Department’s responsibilities.

Applicants should demonstrate a connection between their research expertise and an eligible DHS research priority.

Securing land and maritime borders

Land and maritime border security involve challenges associated with monitoring, protection, safety, and the lawful movement of people and goods.

Relevant scientific and technical research can contribute to improved systems, analytical methods, and technologies that support border security.

Safeguarding cybersecurity and financial integrity

Cybersecurity and financial integrity are significant areas of concern in an increasingly connected world.

Relevant research may support efforts to understand vulnerabilities, protect digital systems, analyze emerging threats, and improve the security of information and financial systems.

Candidates with expertise in computing, information sciences, data sciences, mathematics, engineering, or related fields should review whether their research aligns with the designated DHS priorities.

Countering evolving threats, terrorism, and transnational crime

The Department of Homeland Security addresses changing threats, including terrorism and transnational crime.

Research in relevant scientific, technological, analytical, and social disciplines may contribute to efforts to understand and respond to these challenges.

Strengthening resilience and critical infrastructure protection

Critical infrastructure supports essential functions in society. Its protection and resilience are important to national security and public safety.

Research relevant to infrastructure systems, engineering, cybersecurity, environmental risks, and related disciplines may contribute to efforts to strengthen these systems.

Protecting and facilitating lawful trade and travel

The Department also has responsibilities involving lawful trade and travel.

Research may support approaches that improve security while helping facilitate legitimate movement and commercial activity.

Enhancing physical protection, safety, and security

Physical protection and safety are additional mission areas identified in the supplied fellowship description.

Depending on the project, relevant research may contribute to protective technologies, safety systems, risk analysis, and other efforts designed to strengthen security and resilience.

6. Financial Benefits of the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship 2027

The fellowship provides several financial provisions intended to support participants during their 12-month research appointment.

6.1 Stipend of $90,000

Selected participants will receive a total stipend of $90,000 for the 12-month appointment.

This is one of the fellowship’s main benefits and provides financial support while participants undertake their assigned research activities.

Applicants should consult the official appointment terms for details about payment arrangements and any applicable conditions.

6.2 Health insurance allowance of up to $550 per month

The fellowship provides a health insurance allowance of up to $550 per month for the duration of the appointment.

If the maximum monthly allowance applies throughout all 12 months, the total would be up to $6,600.

Participants should review the official terms to understand the conditions governing the allowance and the eligible insurance arrangements.

6.3 Dislocation or inbound/outbound travel allowance

Eligible participants may receive assistance connected to relocation or travel.

The supplied terms specify either:

• A dislocation allowance of $3,500; or

• An inbound/outbound allowance of up to $1,000.

This provision applies to eligible participants who live more than 50 miles, one way, from their assigned hosting site and meet the other applicable criteria.

The two options should not be treated as automatically cumulative. Applicants should confirm which option applies to their circumstances.

6.4 Travel allowance of up to $5,000

Participants may receive up to $5,000 for eligible travel activities that support the research appointment.

The supplied program description identifies the following possible uses:

• Academic conference attendance.

• Professional development activities.

• Travel supporting the research project.

• Other travel requested by DHS in support of the appointment.

This funding can help participants engage with relevant research communities, share their work, and pursue professional development opportunities, subject to approval and program rules.

Understanding the financial package

The $90,000 stipend is the stated amount for the 12-month appointment. The health insurance, relocation, and travel provisions are separate allowances subject to their own requirements.

Applicants should not assume that every participant will receive the maximum value of every allowance. Eligibility, approval, appointment conditions, and the nature of the research placement may affect the support available.

7. Research Experience and Professional Development Opportunities

The fellowship provides more than financial support. It is structured to give eligible participants practical experience and opportunities to develop professionally in research environments connected to homeland security.

Applied research at federal research facilities

Participants will undertake applied research with federal research facilities and other homeland security STEM-focused organizations across the United States.

Applied research involves using scientific knowledge, technical methods, and analytical skills to investigate practical questions or address defined challenges.

The precise research project and responsibilities will depend on the participant’s appointment and hosting arrangements.

Onsite and hybrid participation

The supplied description states that participants will work either fully onsite or in a combination of onsite and virtual activities in an on-campus environment.

Applicants should be prepared for the working arrangements associated with their assigned placement. They should also confirm any location, attendance, and participation requirements before accepting an appointment.

Collaboration with researchers and operational professionals

The fellowship provides opportunities to establish connections with DHS professionals, researchers, operational personnel, and research facilities.

Such interactions can help participants understand how research relates to practical needs and how different professionals contribute to homeland security activities.

Applying academic knowledge in practical settings

Doctoral education develops specialized knowledge and research skills. The fellowship gives participants opportunities to apply these capabilities in settings where research is connected to real-world challenges.

This experience can help strengthen problem-solving, analytical thinking, technical communication, and research project skills.

Long-term professional connections

The program specifically aims to facilitate long-term relationships between participants and professionals across the Homeland Security Enterprise.

Although future employment or continued collaboration is not guaranteed, the relationships developed during a research appointment may help participants learn about relevant research communities and professional pathways.

8. Eligibility Requirements for the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship 2027

Applicants must meet all the stated eligibility requirements to be considered for the fellowship.

United States citizenship is mandatory

Applicants must be U.S. citizens by the application deadline.

The program does not accept applicants who are citizens of other countries but are not U.S. citizens.

Evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a photocopy of a U.S. passport, birth certificate, Certificate of U.S. Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, must be provided to ORISE when an award is accepted, as directed by the program.

Candidates should consult the official instructions for the precise documentation requirements.

Doctoral degree requirement

Applicants must meet one of the following academic conditions:

1. They are currently pursuing a doctoral degree in a designated field relevant to DHS missions; or

2. They obtained their PhD within the preceding 12 months.

The fellowship is intended for doctoral-level researchers and recent doctoral graduates. A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree alone does not satisfy the stated academic requirement.

Candidates who are still enrolled must provide proof of enrollment for the current academic term before their appointment begins if selected.

Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00

Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale, as shown on their most recent transcript by the application deadline.

The supplied description states that this requirement will be strictly enforced.

Candidates should check their most recent academic records before applying and ensure that the submitted transcripts accurately reflect their grades.

Minimum age requirement

Applicants must be at least 18 years old by June 1, 2027, according to the supplied eligibility information.

Candidates who do not meet the stated age requirement should consult the official program information before proceeding.

Relevant academic discipline

Applicants must be studying or have recently completed a doctoral degree in an academic discipline related to a designated DHS research area.

The relevant disciplines include the fields outlined earlier in this article, but candidates should verify that their specific degree program and research specialization qualify.

Full-time participation for 12 months

Participants must commit to the full 12-month appointment. Full-time participation is required.

Applicants should consider whether they can meet the time commitment, research responsibilities, and onsite or hybrid working arrangements associated with their placement.

Academic enrollment verification

Candidates selected for an appointment who are still studying must provide proof of enrollment for the current academic term before the appointment begins.

Applicants should be prepared to obtain the required documentation from their institution if selected.

9. Required Documents for the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship Application

The fellowship application must be completed through the Zintellect system. A complete application includes the required profile, application form, academic records, and recommendations.

Completed Zintellect profile

Applicants must complete their Zintellect profile as part of the application process.

The profile should contain accurate information and be completed according to the instructions provided by the application platform.

Completed fellowship application

Candidates must complete the application associated with the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship reference code DHS-GRF-2027-Summer.

Applicants should review all sections carefully and ensure that required questions and fields have been completed before submission.

Academic transcripts or records

Applicants may submit unofficial transcripts or copies of academic records printed by themselves or their academic advisers from internal institutional systems.

The records must include:

• The name of the academic institution.

• The student’s name.

• Completed and in-progress coursework.

• Grades.

Documents must have all Social Security numbers, student identification numbers, and dates of birth removed, blackened out, or otherwise made illegible before being uploaded.

This is an important privacy requirement. Applicants should inspect every page of each academic document before submitting it.

Official transcripts will be required if an appointment is offered.

Letters of recommendation

Applicants are required to request recommendations from professionals who can speak to their academic record and their potential for success in the fellowship.

Recommenders should be able to discuss the applicant’s academic achievements, communication skills, teamwork, and suitability for a research appointment.

The recommendation process follows specific rules:

• Recommendations must be completed by the recommenders through Zintellect.

• Recommendations submitted through email will not be accepted.

• All required recommendations must be submitted by November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

• Late recommendations will not be accepted.

• Applications that do not have all required recommendations submitted on time will not be considered.

Applicants are responsible for contacting their recommenders, providing sufficient notice, and following up to confirm that all recommendations have been received.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY 

10. Application Deadlines for the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship 2027

The fellowship has separate deadlines for the main application and the letters of recommendation.

Main application deadline: November 13, 2026

The completed application must be received by November 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Applicants should aim to submit before the deadline rather than waiting until the final hours. Technical issues, missing documents, or incomplete application sections could prevent an application from being considered.

Recommendation deadline: November 20, 2026

Letters of recommendation must be received by November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Although the recommendation deadline is later than the main application deadline, applicants should request recommendations well in advance.

Candidates should not assume that submitting their own application automatically completes the recommendation process.

Recommended preparation timeline

To manage the application process effectively, candidates can follow this preparation plan:

1. Review eligibility: Confirm citizenship, doctoral status, GPA, age, and research-field requirements.

2. Prepare academic records: Obtain the latest transcript and remove prohibited personal identifiers before uploading.

3. Contact recommenders early: Request recommendations from appropriate academic or professional contacts.

4. Complete the application: Fill in the required Zintellect profile and application sections.

5. Review all documents: Check that uploaded records are legible, complete, and correctly prepared.

6. Submit early: Aim to submit the complete application before November 13, 2026.

7. Follow up on recommendations: Confirm that each recommender submits their recommendation through Zintellect by November 20, 2026.

   CLICK HERE  for more information on the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship

11. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship

Applicants interested in the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship should follow the official application procedure.

Step 1: Access the Zintellect platform

Visit the Zintellect website and search for the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship using the reference code DHS-GRF-2027-Summer.

Make sure that you select the correct program before beginning the application.

Step 2: Read the eligibility requirements

Review the program’s citizenship, academic, GPA, age, and participation requirements.

Confirm that your doctoral program or recent PhD qualification is in a designated discipline relevant to the Department of Homeland Security’s mission.

Step 3: Complete your profile

Create or update your Zintellect profile and provide all requested information.

Check your entries for accuracy before proceeding to the application.

Step 4: Complete the application form

Complete the fellowship application and respond to all required questions.

Provide information about your academic background and research experience as requested by the application system.

Step 5: Upload academic records

Prepare and upload your transcripts or academic records in accordance with the official instructions.

Ensure that each document contains the required academic information and that Social Security numbers, student identification numbers, and dates of birth have been removed or made illegible.

Step 6: Request recommendations

Identify appropriate recommenders who can discuss your academic accomplishments, research potential, communication skills, and teamwork.

Request recommendations early and explain that submissions must be completed through Zintellect.

Step 7: Check your application for completeness

Before submitting, review all required sections and supporting materials.

Ensure that your academic records are properly prepared and that your recommenders understand the separate deadline.

Step 8: Submit before November 13, 2026

Submit your completed application through Zintellect before the deadline of November 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Allow sufficient time for the platform’s submission process and retain any confirmation information provided.

Step 9: Confirm that recommendations are submitted

Follow up with your recommenders to ensure all required letters have been submitted through the correct system by November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Do not send recommendations by email, as the supplied program instructions state that emailed recommendations will not be accepted.

Step 10: Monitor communications from the program

After submission, check Zintellect and your email for communications or further instructions from the program administrators.

If you have questions, contact dhsed@orau.org and include the reference code DHS-GRF-2027-Summer.

12. Nature of the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship Appointment

The fellowship has a specific appointment structure that applicants should understand before accepting an award.

According to the supplied program description, participants will not enter into an employee-employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DHS, or the hosting facility.

Instead, participants will be affiliated with ORISE for administration of the appointment through the ORISE Letter of Appointment and Terms of Appointment.

This distinction is important because the fellowship is structured as a research appointment rather than conventional employment with the sponsoring department or hosting organization.

Candidates should read the official appointment documents carefully to understand their responsibilities, applicable conditions, financial provisions, and other requirements.

The stipend and allowances described in the opportunity should be understood in the context of those official terms.

13. Contact Information for Applicants

Applicants who require clarification about the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship can contact the program administrator.

• Point of contact: Cedricka

• Email address: dhsed@orau.org

• Reference code: DHS-GRF-2027-Summer

When contacting the program, applicants should identify the fellowship and include the reference code in their message.

For information about the sponsoring office, visit the DHS Science and Technology Directorate Office of University Programs.

To find the application, visit Zintellect.

14. Why Eligible Researchers Should Consider the DHS Graduate Research Fellowship

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship offers several potential advantages for eligible doctoral researchers and recent PhD graduates.

First, it provides substantial financial support through a $90,000 stipend for a 12-month appointment, alongside separate allowances subject to eligibility and program conditions.

Second, it provides opportunities to undertake applied research in federal research facilities and other homeland security-focused environments. This can help participants understand how academic knowledge and technical skills are applied to practical challenges.

Third, the fellowship supports research relevant to major public safety and national security priorities. Depending on the assigned project, participants may contribute to work involving cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, engineering, data sciences, environmental sciences, or other designated research areas.

Fourth, the program provides opportunities to build relationships with researchers, operational personnel, and research facilities across the Homeland Security Enterprise.

Finally, the experience may help participants strengthen their research profiles and prepare for future opportunities in relevant scientific, technical, and research fields. However, selection does not guarantee subsequent employment with DHS or any other organization.

The opportunity is especially worth considering for eligible candidates whose doctoral research aligns closely with the fellowship’s stated mission areas and who can commit to the full 12-month appointment.

Conclusion

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship 2027 is a research opportunity designed to support doctoral-level education, applied research, and the development of scientific and technical expertise relevant to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Through a 12-month appointment, eligible participants receive a $90,000 stipend and may qualify for additional support, including a health insurance allowance of up to $550 per month, relocation assistance, and up to $5,000 for approved research-related travel and professional development.

The fellowship supports a broad range of designated academic disciplines, including computer and data sciences, engineering, chemistry, physics, mathematics, environmental sciences, life and medical sciences, and social and behavioral sciences. Research must be relevant to the Department’s mission and meet the official program requirements.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, currently pursuing a doctoral degree or have obtained a PhD within the preceding 12 months, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale, meet the age requirement, and commit to full-time participation for 12 months.

The main application deadline is November 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, and letters of recommendation are due by November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Interested candidates should review the official eligibility rules, prepare their documents carefully, contact their recommenders early, and submit all required application materials through Zintellect.