Brief Information
Junior Scholars Symposium 2026 is an exclusive academic workshop for PhD students working on international security and national security policy. Hosted by the Cato Institute, the symposium brings together emerging scholars and leading policy experts. Participants receive structured feedback, publication guidance, and full financial support. This opportunity is ideal for early-career researchers seeking policy impact.
Key Dates & Details
- Application Deadline: 25 April 2026
- Symposium Dates: 15–16 October 2026
- Location: Washington, DC (on-site)
- Program Type: Research workshop / symposium
- Target Group: PhD students (after 1st year)
- Stipend: USD 500
- Covered Costs: Travel, hotel accommodation, working dinner
- Notification Date: 26 May 2026
- Final Paper Submission: 26 September 2026
- Organizer: Cato Institute
Table of Contents
Overview
The Junior Scholars Symposium 2026 is the ninth edition of a highly selective academic workshop designed to support PhD researchers working on policy-relevant topics in international security and national security policy.
The symposium aligns with the Cato Institute’s mission to promote a U.S. foreign policy of restraint. Selected papers are expected to critically examine existing U.S. approaches to international relations and offer evidence-based recommendations for improvement.
Participants will present journal-length research papers in a collaborative workshop environment. The focus is on constructive peer feedback, methodological refinement, and practical strategies for publishing in leading academic journals. Discussions are led by fellow doctoral researchers and experienced Cato scholars, creating a high-impact learning setting.
Junior Scholars Symposium 2026 is especially valuable for PhD candidates seeking to bridge academic research with real-world policy debates while expanding their professional networks in Washington, DC.
In addition, the Junior Scholars Symposium 2026 offers an exceptional platform for participants to engage deeply with policy practitioners and experienced researchers working at the intersection of academia and decision-making. The workshop format encourages open discussion, rigorous debate, and detailed commentary on both theoretical framing and empirical design. Beyond academic feedback, participants benefit from professional development insights, long-term mentoring potential, and exposure to Washington, DC’s policy research ecosystem, making the symposium a strategic milestone in an early-career scholar’s academic journey.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Junior Scholars Symposium 2026, applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled in a PhD program
- Have completed at least one year of doctoral study by October 2026
- Have an academic background in political science, history, or a related field
- Submit research related to international security or national security policy
- Prepare a paper suitable for journal-article publication
Relevant research topics include (but are not limited to):
- U.S. foreign policy
- Grand strategy
- Civil-military relations
- Alliances and security institutions
- Diplomatic and strategic history
Application Details
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Abstract (maximum 500 words)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
📩 Submission Email: [email protected]
🗓 Deadline: 25 April 2026
All applicants will be notified of the selection outcome by 26 May 2026. Shortlisted participants must submit their full papers by 26 September 2026.
🔗 Helpful resource:
- Cato Institute research programs: https://www.cato.org/research
FAQ
1. Is Junior Scholars Symposium 2026 fully funded?
Yes. Travel, accommodation, a working dinner, and a USD 500 stipend are provided.
2. Can international PhD students apply?
Yes. The call is open to eligible PhD students worldwide.
3. Do I need a completed paper to apply?
No. Only an abstract and CV are required at the application stage.
4. Where will the symposium take place?
The event will be held at the Cato Institute building in Washington, DC.
Official Link
👉 Apply and read the official call here:
https://www.cato.org/blog/call-proposals-junior-scholars-symposium-2025-0
