At the Forefront of Energy Innovation, UT Opens Faculty Fellows Program to Energy Researchers

The University of Texas at Austin has been shaping the future of energy solutions for more than a century. From its top-ranked petroleum engineering program to its emerging focus on renewables, UT is home to some of the world's foremost authorities in energy technology, law, business and policy.

Building on this foundation of excellence, the University is inviting scholars from around the world to spend a year alongside the more than 400 energy researchers in schools, departments and research centers throughout the Forty Acres as part of UT's Donald D. Harrington Faculty Fellows Program.

Each Harrington Faculty Fellow receives a generous salary stipend, housing allowances and $75,000 in discretionary funds - an amount exceeding similar national fellowship programs. There are no teaching expectations; Harrington Faculty Fellows spend their year in residence using the University's facilities, resources and collaborative opportunities to pursue the advancement of their research and scholarship.

The Harrington Faculty Fellows Program is one of the most generous programs of its kind in the world and has supported early- and midcareer scholars in creative research since 2001. Originally open to research in all areas, the program now concentrates on a specific annual theme. The 2025-26 Harrington Faculty Fellows pursued innovative research surrounding artificial intelligence. The focus for 2026-27 is energy, which includes issues related to energy discovery, production, storage, demand, usage and technology innovation or distribution.

Harrington Faculty Fellows accepted for the 2026-27 academic year will be based at UT's Energy Institute, which connects academic experts, industry leaders and policymakers to address the world's toughest energy issues. Known for its interdisciplinary focus, the Energy Institute advances high-impact educational programs that blend technical rigor with real-world application.

Interested faculty members must apply by Oct. 31 and be within 10 years of their first tenure-track appointment to be eligible. Scholars in engineering, geology, chemistry, physics, biosciences, law, computer science, policy or business are especially encouraged to apply. However, applications from any academic discipline will be considered. Questions about eligibility, the application process and the program can be directed to [email protected].