Applications are open for the 2027 NASA Hubble Fellowship Program, supporting independent astrophysics research for postdoctoral scientists of any nationality
Applications are now open for the 2027 NASA Hubble Fellowship Program (NHFP), a postdoctoral fellowship supporting independent research that contributes to NASA Astrophysics.
Successful applicants become Einstein, Hubble or Sagan Fellows, depending on their research area. The program supports theoretical, observational and instrumental research in astronomy, physics and related disciplines.
Opportunity Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | NASA Hubble Fellowship Program |
| Fellowship year | 2027 |
| Level | Postdoctoral |
| Fields | Astronomy, physics and related disciplines |
| Nationality | Applicants of any nationality |
| Fellowship duration | Up to 3 years |
| Initial appointment | 1 year |
| Renewals | Up to 2 additional years |
| Host location | U.S. host institution of choice |
| Expected fellowships | Up to 24 |
| Application deadline | October 28, 2026 |
| Reference letter deadline | November 4, 2026 |
| Expected start | Around September 1, 2027 |
What the NASA Hubble Fellowship Involves
The NHFP supports postdoctoral scientists conducting independent research relevant to NASA Astrophysics. Research may be theoretical, observational and/or instrumental.
The fellowship is administered for NASA by the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), in collaboration with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA Exoplanet Science Institute and Chandra X-ray Center.
Up to 24 fellowships are anticipated for this year’s competition.
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to applicants of any nationality who have completed or will complete all requirements for their doctoral degree on or after January 1, 2023.
Applicants should have doctoral-level qualifications in:
- Astronomy
- Physics
- Related disciplines
The fellowship is specifically intended for postdoctoral researchers conducting independent astrophysics research.
Fellowship Duration
The fellowship can last for up to three years:
- One-year initial appointment
- Two additional annual renewals
- Renewals are subject to satisfactory performance and availability of NASA funding
Fellows can select a U.S. host institution, subject to the program’s host-institution restrictions and employment policy.
Application Deadline
The 2027 NASA Hubble Fellowship Program application deadline is October 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time (4:00 p.m. Pacific Time).
Reference letters are due separately on November 4, 2026.
Applicants should make sure their referees know that letters must be uploaded as PDF files through the letter submission form.
Important Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 8, 2026 | Application submission opened |
| October 28, 2026 | Main application deadline |
| November 4, 2026 | Reference letter deadline |
| Early February 2027 | Fellowship offers expected |
| Around September 1, 2027 | New appointments expected to begin |
How to Apply
Applicants should review the official Announcement of Opportunity and the program’s frequently asked questions before submitting an application.
The application submission system is available through the NASA Hubble Fellowship Program.
NASA Hubble Fellowship Program Announcement of Opportunity
NASA Hubble Fellowship Application Portal
NASA Hubble Fellowship Program Main Page
Application Tips
Applicants should:
- Clearly explain their proposed astrophysics research.
- Demonstrate the independent research contribution they intend to make.
- Ensure their doctoral completion date meets the eligibility requirement.
- Review the official application instructions carefully.
- Contact potential referees early.
- Ensure reference letters are submitted before the November 4 deadline.
- Review the list of verified host institutions before selecting a host.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
The NASA Hubble Fellowship Program is designed specifically for postdoctoral researchers pursuing independent astrophysics research. The 2027 competition anticipates up to 24 fellowships and permits fellows to conduct their research at eligible U.S. host institutions.
Applicants should rely on the official Announcement of Opportunity for the complete application requirements and program policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the NASA Hubble Fellowship?
Applicants of any nationality can apply if they have completed or will complete their doctoral requirements on or after January 1, 2023, in astronomy, physics or a related discipline.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship can run for up to three years, beginning with a one-year appointment followed by up to two annual renewals.
How many fellowships are expected to be offered?
NASA anticipates offering up to 24 NHFP fellowships for this competition.
When is the application deadline?
Applications are due October 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
When are reference letters due?
Reference letters must be submitted by November 4, 2026.
When will the 2027 fellows begin?
New appointments are expected to begin around September 1, 2027.
Can applicants choose their host institution?
Yes. Fellowships are tenable at a U.S. host institution selected by the fellow, subject to the program’s host-institution requirements and restrictions.
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