Junior Scholars Symposium

Latinx Social Science Pipeline Initiative at UC Berkeley

Call for Applicants: Junior Scholars Symposium

Deadline for Application: April 15, 2024, 5 pm (PT)

Introduction: 

The Latinx Social Science Pipeline Initiative (LSSPI) at the University of California, Berkeley, recognizes the significance of Latinx issues in contemporary U.S. society and is committed to promoting social science research in this vital field. Working with UC Berkeley scholars, students, and staff, LSSPI supports the training and development of social scientists, data analysts, policymakers, and public intellectuals focused on Latino/a communities and efforts to improve socioeconomic conditions and advance racial justice.

The LSSPI, in collaboration with UnidosUS, is pleased to announce the Junior Scholars Symposium. This program is an annual initiative that convenes young scholars working on a dissertation, a book, or another research project related to U.S. and transnational Latino communities to improve socioeconomic conditions and advance racial justice.

We encourage graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, lecturers, contingent faculty, and assistant professors to apply for this unique opportunity to advance their ongoing research projects with the guidance of accomplished Latinx social scientists.

The participants in the symposium will receive relevant training and the opportunity to establish networks with leading scholars in their fields of study.

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be ABD and enrolled in a social science graduate program in the US or a recent graduate within three years of doctoral completion and have a postdoctoral fellowship, a lecturer position, or an assistant professorship at a US university or college. 

  • Conduct research on the US Latinx community in some capacity. 

Symposium Details:

  • Dates: June 25-28 2024.

  • Location: UC Berkeley Latinx Research Center, University of California, Berkeley.

  • Duration: 3 days and 3 nights (inclusive of travel dates).

  • The symposium will cover travel and accommodation expenses for all selected Junior Scholars (for non-local participants only).

Expectations: Junior Scholars selected for the symposium will:

  • Engage in intensive workshops to advance their ongoing research projects.

  • Receive valuable feedback and mentorship from Latino Social Science Pipeline Project co-leads at UC Berkeley and other esteemed Latinx social scientists.

  • Participate in discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities throughout the duration of the program.

Research Projects: Junior Scholars are encouraged to submit 1 or 2 research projects with their application. These materials could include either or a combination of  the following:

  • A draft dissertation chapter.

  • An article in preparation for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.

  • A book chapter.

  • Any other research output that aligns with the goals of the symposium.

Application Requirements: Applicants should submit the following materials:

  1. A Brief Cover Letter that includes:

  • Personal expectations for the symposium.

  • A sense of the applicant's career goals. 

  • Any other relevant personal information the applicant wishes to share with the application committee, including information about mentorship history and needs.  

  • A Curriculum Vitae (CV).

  • A Research Statement that outlines the research agenda and trajectory. 

  • A Letter of Recommendation from an academic advisor or faculty mentor.

    • Application Submission:

    Please submit your application materials in a single PDF document to luis.hernandez@berkeley.edu by April 15, 2024. The email should read “Junior Scholars Symposium Application” in the subject line. The letter of recommendation can be submitted in a separate email from the academic advisor or the faculty member. The letter of recommendation is also due on April 15, 2024. 

    In addition to the application requirements, please complete the following Google questionnaire. This part of the application will remain anonymous and not connected to your particular information. 

    Notification of Awards:

    Successful applicants will be notified by the end of April 2024. 

    Contact:

    For inquiries or additional information, please get in touch with Luis Javier Hernandez at luis.hernandez@berkeley.edu

    The Junior Scholars Symposium offers an invaluable opportunity to advance research projects, receive mentorship from experienced scholars, and establish connections with peers in Latinx social science. We look forward to receiving applications from dedicated and passionate Junior Scholars and supporting innovative Latino Social Science projects!