Program Vision & Overview
A prestigious three-year postdoctoral fellowship at the nexus of energy science and policy, technology innovation and translation, and societal impact. Applications are now open through January 2026.
The Northwestern University Sustainability and Energy Fellows Program is a flagship initiative of the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy, designed to attract and support PhD researchers advancing interdisciplinary solutions in renewable energy, climate innovation, and sustainability. Launching in Spring 2026, the program will offer three-year fellowships to top-tier talent from around the world. International applicants are fully eligible and encouraged to apply.
Unlike typical postdoctoral appointments associated with individual faculty labs, the Northwestern Sustainability and Energy Fellows define their own research pathways, designing projects that align with their expertise, interests, and the Institute's mission. Their work extends beyond scientific and engineering advances, encompassing policy engagement, industry collaboration, and innovation that drives real-world impact in sustainable energy.
Each Fellow will design an independent research proposal under the guidance of at least two Northwestern faculty members as co-mentors, fostering cross-sector collaboration across schools, departments, and research areas. Applicants are strongly encouraged to identify and communicate with potential co-mentors early in the application process to ensure feasibility and alignment with Northwestern’s research strengths.
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Program Objectives
The Fellows will be uniquely positioned to:
- Lead innovative research that advances scientific discovery in energy and sustainability.
- Build global networks and professional relationships through collaboration in a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community.
- Bridge the gap between science, technology, policy, and industry to shape real-world solutions for the energy transition.
- Partner with industry, government, NGOs, and academic institutions to translate their discoveries into scalable, impactful innovations.
- Communicate research outcomes to diverse audiences, helping drive public understanding and action on sustainability issues.
Opportunities & Advantages
An elite cohort of Fellows committed to solving global energy challenges through diverse perspectives and collaborative innovation
Professional Development
- Competitive annual salary: $75,000 plus benefits
- Sufficient Research Funding per year for materials, travel, and professional development up to $15,000
- Entrepreneurship training
- IP strategy & venture capital workshops
- Leadership development
- Participation in Trienens Institute roundtables
- Annual Energy Fellows Symposium
Mentorship & Network:
- Guidance from world-class Northwestern faculty
- Collaboration within an interdisciplinary research ecosystem
- Networking with:
Research Freedom & Impact
Pursue bold solutions in:
- Renewable energy optimization
- Climate modeling
- Cleantech innovation
- Urban adaptation strategies
- Policy and systems change
- Materials for sustainability
- Policy analysis and systems design
- Civic and community engagement on sustainability challenges
- Technology, society, and impact
Application Process
Selection will be based upon the applicants’ broader academic contributions and/or to one's academic discipline. While all levels of postdoctoral scholars are encouraged to apply, priority consideration will be given to early-career postdocs who are at the beginning stages of their independent research trajectory.
Evaluation will be based on the level of innovation, excellence, relevance, and Northwestern-levering dimensions, of the applicants’ independent R&D proposals.
Required Documents (PDFs)
- Cover Letter (1 page) – Describe your background, interest in the Sustainability & Energy Fellows Program, and the potential impact of your proposed research.
- Past Research Accomplishments (1 page) – Summarize your most significant and original research contributions.
- Current Research Proposal (2 pages) – Present an original, independent research proposal that spans activities of two or more Northwestern faculty members. Applicants are encouraged to communicate with potential faculty mentors to assess feasibility.
- Curriculum Vitae (up to 3 pages) – Include your education, research experience, publications, and other relevant achievements.
Applicants must arrange for three total letters of support to be submitted directly:
- One (1) nomination letter from two (2) Northwestern University co-mentors, who will support the proposed project and agree to serve as advisors for the duration of the fellowship.
- One (1) reference letter from individual familiar with the applicant’s independent research and academic achievements (these may be outside Northwestern).
- One (1) reference letter from PhD Advisor.
Deadline for materials to be submitted is January 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM CT.
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