2026-27 THEME: The Future of Knowledge and Democracy
Centers of knowledge production, from universities to newspapers, are undergoing massive changes as older institutions compete with alternative mediums of creating and circulating information, from social media to artificial intelligence. In this environment, many question who is an expert, what constitutes research, and where we should look for reliable knowledge about the issues that matter the most to us, from health to the environment to racial and social justice.
How we answer these questions has profound implications for the future of democracy, as the means through which people obtain knowledge is foundational to participatory governance. As a Gardner Fellow, you will have the opportunity to conduct an independent research project. How do you see yourself, as a producer of knowledge, contributing to the future of democracy?
Application portal for the 2026-27 cohort is now closed.
Application Deadline: March 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Eligibility: Students must be rising juniors, and we welcome students from any major in the School of Arts and Sciences. "Rising junior" status is based on a 4-year class graduation year and not academic credits accumulated. Candidates must therefore apply in the second year of a four-year degree program and participate in the Gardner Program their third year at RU. It is expected they will continue at Rutgers for a full senior year, engage in advanced work, and be part of a mentoring commitment.
Applications Require:
- A letter of application - Please tell us about your interest in the Gardner Fellowship Program. What motivates you to apply and what do you hope to contribute? (One or two pages)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Unofficial transcripts
- Résumé
- A short essay (maximum of two pages) in response to a prompt. 2026-27 Application Essay Prompt: Reflecting on the above theme - in your own experience and thinking, what are some key questions and elements around the future and knowledge of democracy?
If you have any questions about the Fellowship or the application process, please email us at