Application Process

• Eligibility

  1. Individuals awarded a Ph.D. or equivalent;
  2. Early career professional, normally up to10 years after receipt of terminal degree; however, adjustments will be made for nominees who have had childrearing or medical leaves.
  3. Portfolio of research informs criminal justice decision making and public policy, or other related field.

  The award is not limited to individuals affiliated with academic institutions; individuals from outside academia are encouraged to apply.

  The National Academies is committed to enhancing diversity and inclusion in order to strengthen the quality of our work. Diverse perspectives contribute to finding innovative approaches and solutions to challenging issues. We encourage applications from and nominations for candidates who reflect the populations we serve, particularly candidates from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups and women as well as non-US-based individuals.

• How to apply

  Nominators may submit self-nominations or individuals may be nominated by one other person. Nominators will be required to submit a CV and brief statement (1,000 words or less) addressing how the candidate’s portfolio of research demonstrates contributions at the intersection of law and justice and public policy and reflects an innovative and novel idea that informs law and justice-related policymaking and bridges disciplines or frames of thought. One letter of recommendation (written by one recommender) is preferred, but not required.

  Applications for the 2026 lecture will be open from May 15, 2026, to 11:59pm ET on July 15, 2026.

  Apply Now