Duke Cook Center 2026 Summer Research Fellowships
The Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity at Duke University offers exciting summer research fellowships for 2026. These fellowships target both graduate and undergraduate students who want hands-on experience in studying social inequality. If you attend Duke and care about issues like education, health, or justice, this program lets you join real research teams and build key skills.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Social inequality affects people everywhere, from schools to prisons and health care. The Cook Center focuses on four main areas: educational and economic opportunity, health equity, carceral justice, and public policy. Fellows work on projects that use data and new methods to understand these problems and find solutions.
This program stands out because it connects research to real-world change. Students learn how their work can shape policies and programs. It also builds a diverse group of scholars ready to fight inequality at home and abroad.
What You’ll Gain
Fellows get strong support and rewards for their summer work. Here are the main benefits:
Stipend: Graduate fellows earn $10,625.01 for the summer. Undergraduates get $2,500 per term, or up to $5,000 if they do both terms.
Mentorship: You receive one-on-one advice from faculty, postdocs, and top scholars. Graduate fellows also mentor undergrads, which helps develop leadership.
Research Experience: Join teams to handle data collection, review studies, analyze results, and share findings. This gives practical skills in real projects.
Skill Building: Learn research methods, stats, teamwork, project management, and clear communication.
Networking: Meet peers, mentors, and experts from different fields. This opens doors for future jobs and collaborations.
Visibility: Share your work on the Cook Center website, which boosts your profile in academia or policy circles.
Undergrads get a close look at advanced research, while grads lead and guide others.
Eligibility Requirements
The program has clear rules to join.
For Graduate Fellows:
- Current Duke PhD students in good standing.
- Enrolled for Fall 2026.
- Check with your department on summer funding rules.
For Undergraduate Fellows:
- Current Duke students enrolled for Fall 2026.
- Eligible to work in the U.S.
For Everyone:
- Strong interest in social equity research.
- Commit to biweekly meetings and full project work.
- Ready to join team activities all summer.
How to Apply and Deadlines
Start by visiting the Cook Center website to download the right form for grads or undergrads. Gather your CV, research interest statement, and recommendation letters into one PDF. Follow the site’s steps to submit.
Key dates:
- Priority deadline: March 31, 2026.
- Final rolling deadline: April 30, 2026, if spots remain.
Check the official Cook Center website for full details and to apply. Act soon to get priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the graduate fellowships?
Current Duke PhD students in good standing, enrolled for Fall 2026, who check with their department on summer funding rules.
What is the stipend for fellows?
Graduate fellows get $10,625.01 for the summer, while undergraduates receive $2,500 per term or up to $5,000 for both terms.
What are the application deadlines?
The priority deadline is March 31, 2026, and the final rolling deadline is April 30, 2026, if spots remain.
How do I apply for the fellowships?
Visit the Cook Center website, download the form for grads or undergrads, prepare your CV, statement, and letters in one PDF, and submit following the site steps.