This program brings together the best of Northwestern’s strengths in energy, climate, and innovation. We are investing in rising leaders whose research will shape the future of the energy transition and a more sustainable world.”
Northwestern Launches Prestigious Global Fellowship to Accelerate Breakthroughs in Sustainability and Energy
Tommy Baker | December 10, 2025
Northwestern University has announced the launch of the Sustainability & Energy Fellows Program, a prestigious three-year postdoctoral fellowship designed to advance transformative research at the nexus of energy science, policy, technology innovation, and societal impact. Applications are now open through January 30, 2026, and scholars from around the world are encouraged to apply.
Developed by the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy, the fellowship serves as a cornerstone initiative aimed at attracting exceptional early-career researchers pursuing bold, interdisciplinary solutions to global climate and energy challenges. The Innagural cohort will begin in Spring 2026.
A New Model for Postdoctoral Research
Unlike traditional postdoctoral appointments tied to single faculty labs, the Sustainability & Energy Fellows enjoy unprecedented research independence. Each Fellow will define their own research trajectory—designing original projects that integrate scientific excellence with policy relevance, innovation potential, and real-world impact.
Fellows will be co-mentored by at least two Northwestern faculty members, encouraging collaboration across disciplines, departments, and schools. Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin conversations with potential co-mentors early in the process to ensure alignment and feasibility.
Advancing Research with Global Impact
The program is uniquely positioned to support scholars whose work spans scientific discovery, technology translation, and societal engagement. Fellows will pursue projects in areas such as renewable energy generation and optimization, climate modeling and forecasting, advanced materials for sustainability, cleantech innovation, urban resilience, policy design, community-engaged research and more.
Beyond laboratory and field research, Fellows will engage with industry leaders, policymakers, NGOs, and academic partners to translate their discoveries into actionable, scalable climate solutions.
A Cohort Built for Collaboration and Leadership
Fellows will participate in a robust set of professional development opportunities that span leadership and communication training, entrepreneurship and venture strategy workshops and guidance on intellectual property and commercialization. They will engage with the Trienens Institute Executive Council and collaborate with members of the Trienens Institute Industry Affiliates Program, while also accessing opportunities through the Institute for Policy Research, Pritzker School of Law, Buffett Institute for Global Affairs, and the Querrey InQbation Lab. Additional touchpoints include the annual Energy Fellows Symposium and participation in the Trienens Institute roundtables.
Selection Process and Application Materials
The program is designed for exceptional early-career researchers who demonstrate innovation, a record of scholarly impact, and a compelling vision for independent research. Applications will be evaluated on the originality and excellence of the proposed work, its relevance to global sustainability and energy challenges, and the extent to which the project leverages Northwestern's interdisciplinary strengths.
Applicants will submit a concise set of materials outlining their background, past research accomplishments, and proposed research trajectory, developed in consultation with at least two Northwestern co-mentors. Letters of support from mentors and advisors will also be required. Complete application guidelines, including detailed document specifications, can be found on the program website.
Building a New Generation of Climate Leaders
By combining research freedom, cross-sector collaboration, and professional development, the Sustainability & Energy Fellows Program will cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to drive the energy transition, accelerate climate innovation, and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable world.
Applications are now open.
For full program details or to begin an application, visit: Northwestern University Sustainability and Energy Fellows