Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for a graduate Energy Fellowship at MIT?

Outstanding students who apply to a departmental doctoral program at MIT, and are specifically interested in studying energy, are eligible for consideration for Named MIT Energy Fellowships.

How do I apply for an Energy Fellowship?

Indicate your interest in energy research in your personal statement within your application for graduate study at MIT. Although there is no separate application process for Energy Fellowships, you may wish to make your interest in them known to the department to which you apply.

What is the term of the fellowship?

The fellowship is funded for 9 months (September 1 – May 31). Fellows remain members of the Society for the entirety of their time at MIT.

How are Energy Fellows selected?

The Fellowships are designated by the departments to which students apply.

How many Fellowships are awarded?

Approximately 40 Fellowships were awarded in 2008-09 and 2009-10 to twenty departments across MIT’s five schools.

Where does the funding for the Fellowships come from?

Fellowships are supported by the MIT Energy Initiative’s Founding, Sustaining, and Associate members.

What does it mean to be a “Named” MIT Energy Fellow?

The sponsors that fund the Energy Fellowships participate in fellows events organized throughout the academic year. Fellows have opportunities to get to know their sponsoring company, its interest and activities in energy, and possibilities for internships or career options.

What does it mean to be part of the Society of Energy Fellows?

Fellows receive announcements about all MITEI seminars and public events. In addition, academic, networking, and social events specifically for the Fellows are scheduled throughout the year. These events provide opportunities for fellows to learn about emerging energy issues, to share and discuss their research projects and goals, and to develop working and personal relationships to benefit their careers at MIT and beyond. Most importantly, the Society is thoroughly multidisciplinary, with Fellows hailing from a wide range of academic backgrounds and interested in all aspects of energy research. As a result, members of the Society of Energy Fellows are stimulated to think in new ways and develop a richer perspective to bring to their scholarly and professional work.