Hopelab: HBCU Translational Science Fellowship

The HBCU translational science fellowship aims to increase the number of viable solutions supporting the mental health and well-being of Black adolescents by amplifying the visibility of Black youth mental health research within the broader mental health field. The Fellowship is designed for research faculty and career researchers at Historically Black Colleges and Universities who have expertise in Black youth well-being and who have a goal of translating this research into practical approaches and solutions. The cohorts of fellows will collaborate with and learn from each other, as well as from Hopelab experts, industry leaders, and previous HBCU fellows to develop and refine their projects.

Applications for the 2025-26 Cohort are open

We are excited to announce the opening of applications for the second cohort of our HBCU Translational Science Fellowship. The Fellows will each work on an independent project focused on supporting the well-being of Black adolescents (ages 10-25). An ideal candidate has research expertise focused on Black youth well-being and aims to translate this research into practical approaches and solutions through partnerships in areas including practice, products, and/or policies. They have an interest in broadening their aperture by exploring different methods for research, design, and application, expanding their networks, and deepening their understanding of adjacent sectors (e.g. digital/social innovation, youth-serving organizations, philanthropy, and/or policy).

Fellowship Details

The Fellowship will begin in early September 2025 and run for 12 months, with the possibility to extend to a second year. Fellows will receive $100,000 to support expenses directly related to project activities. Additional fellowship benefits include individualized project support and coaching from Hopelab staff and previous fellows, access to Hopelab’s professional network, and opportunities to showcase your research to cross-sector audiences.

Eligible candidates are research faculty and career researchers at an HBCU in a relevant field of behavioral science. Current PhD students and Post-docs are not eligible to apply. We are seeking candidates who have research expertise in social and emotional well-being and positive development among Black adolescents.

More details, including qualifications, requirements, and how to apply can be found on the application page.

Learn more and apply here: https://hopelab.org/programs/hbcu-translational-science-fellowship