2027 BSSw Fellowship Program: Receive Up to $25,000 to Improve Scientific Software
Overview
The Better Scientific Software Fellowship Program offers funding and professional recognition to individuals dedicated to improving the quality, sustainability, and productivity of scientific software. The programme supports advocates who develop practical resources, share knowledge, and promote effective engineering practices across the scientific research community. Sponsors of the initiative include the US Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation.
What you get
Selected fellows receive up to US$25,000 to carry out an approved activity that promotes better scientific software, such as organising workshops, developing tutorials, creating educational resources, or producing publicly available content. Additionally, fellows receive professional recognition and are honoured at the US-RSE Annual Conference in October 2027. At least three fellows are selected annually, alongside honourable mentions where appropriate.
Who can apply
The fellowship is intended for individuals with relevant experience in scientific software and the ability to lead an activity that improves software practices or supports the community. This may include scientific software developers, research software engineers, researchers who maintain scientific codes, and professionals involved in research computing.
Requirements
Applicants must submit an online application that includes a two-page maximum curriculum vitae or résumé in PDF format and a one-page maximum supporting letter from their supervisor in PDF format. Written responses are also required, covering relevant scientific software work, background and experience as a fellow, a project name or tagline, a description of the proposed fellowship activity, anticipated technical and broader community impacts, relevant BSSw focus areas and subtopics, and any relation to previous fellowship work.
How to apply
Applications are submitted through the online application form.
Key dates
The application deadline is 30 October 2026, before midnight Pacific Daylight Time, and this deadline will not be extended. Selection announcements will take place in January 2027. The funded fellowship period runs from 1 April 2027 to 30 April 2028, with fellows honoured at a conference in October 2027.