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

Overview

The DHS Graduate Research Fellowship supports doctoral-level education and applied research to strengthen the scientific and technical workforce of the United States. Sponsored by the DHS Science and Technology Directorate Office of University Programs, the program focuses on developing expertise relevant to national security, public safety, and resilience. Selected participants undertake applied research at federal research facilities and homeland security-focused organizations, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge to practical challenges and collaborate with experienced professionals. The program uses the reference code DHS-GRF-2027-Summer.

Who can apply

The fellowship is open exclusively to United States citizens. Applicants must meet specific doctoral-degree, GPA, age, and full-time participation requirements. Eligible disciplines include cybersecurity, engineering, computer and data sciences, environmental sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, life and medical sciences, and social and behavioral sciences, provided the research interests align with designated DHS research areas.

Requirements

Applicants must carefully review all eligibility guidelines, ensuring they satisfy the doctoral-degree, GPA, age, and full-time participation requirements alongside U.S. citizenship.

Key dates

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