Call for Proposals: The John Paul Eberhard Fellowship 2025

Invitation to Apply

The Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture (ANFA) is excited to announce the John Paul Eberhard Fellowship, aimed at fostering innovative research at the intersection of neuroscience and architecture. This fellowship honors John Paul Eberhard, FAIA, for his pioneering contributions to integrating neuroscience with architectural practice.


Fellowship Intent

We invite Master's students, PhD students, and postdoctoral fellows from Neuroscience or Architecture programs to apply. This fellowship supports research projects, theses, or dissertations that explore the interface between these two fields, contributing to a deeper understanding of how neuroscience can inform architectural design.


Goal

Advance the scientifically validated knowledge base of Neuroscience for Architecture.


Research Areas

Potential research topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Sensory processing and spatial memory in wayfinding.
  • Visual system organization and its role in aesthetic experience of architecture.
  • Effects of artificial lighting on circadian rhythms.
  • Influence of the environment on brain development and plasticity.
  • Impact of environmental complexity on stress, learning, and performance.

Eligibility

  • Graduate students, PhD candidates, or postdoctoral fellows in Architecture or Neuroscience.
  • Projects must integrate concepts from Neuroscience for Architecture.
  • Applicants must have at least two academic or professional advisors qualified in both disciplines.

Selection Process

A panel of neuroscientists and architects will evaluate applications based on originality, creativity, and feasibility. The ANFA Board of Directors will make the final award decisions.


Fellowship Details

  • Application Period: Opens January 31, 2025
  • Deadline: June 16, 2025
  • Award Announcement: July 31, 2025
  • Duration: One year, with the possibility of a second year.
  • Funding: Up to $10,000, with a negotiated disbursement schedule.

Application Requirements

  1. Eligibility Statement: Proof of eligibility as per the criteria above.
  2. Project Abstract: Maximum 250 words.
  3. Project Description: Background, objectives, methods, expected results, and advisor details (max 3 pages, single-spaced).
  4. CV/Bio: Applicant's curriculum vitae or biography (max 2 pages, single-spaced).
  5. Budget: Detailed budget including stipends, materials, and other costs, along with proof of matching funds if needed.
  6. Recommendation Letters: Three academic recommendations, including one from an advisor, detailing available facilities for the project.

Fellows are expected to present their findings at the ANFA Conference in 2027 and contribute to a searchable database of the literature on Neuroscience for Architecture. Publication of results is highly encouraged.

Submit your application by 5:00 PM Pacific Time on June 16, 2025, to https://tinyurl.com/jpefellowship2025.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for the fellowship as an individual, or do I need to be part of a team?
You must apply as an individual. The fellowship is awarded to eligible Master’s students, doctoral candidates, or postdoctoral fellows. While only one person may apply, your application must include at least two academic or professional advisors—one with expertise in neuroscience and one in architecture—to support the interdisciplinary nature of your project. Collaborative input is welcome through this advisory team, but the applicant must be a single individual.
To be eligible for the John Paul Eberhard Fellowship, you must be a currently enrolled Master’s student, PhD candidate, or postdoctoral fellow formally affiliated with a program in either Architecture or Neuroscience. While interdisciplinary interest is important, affiliation with one of these two disciplines is required. Your proposed research must clearly integrate both fields and be supported by at least two qualified advisors—one from each discipline.
Proposals must demonstrate a clear and well-articulated integration of neuroscience and architecture. Projects that are only loosely related or do not meaningfully engage both disciplines are unlikely to be competitive.
You must have at least two academic or professional advisors—one with expertise in architecture and one in neuroscience. If you don’t yet have qualified advisors, we encourage you to secure appropriate mentors before applying. Consider contacting faculty, ANFA’s network, or researchers who have published in the field.
Collaborative projects are welcome and may enhance the research. You must still apply as an individual, and your proposal must include the required advisors regardless of institutional affiliation.
No restrictions, as long as the methods are rigorous and appropriate for exploring the intersection of neuroscience and architecture. Explain how your methodology supports your objectives and integrates both disciplines.
Your project description must be clear, focused, and no longer than 3 single-spaced pages. It should include background, objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and advisor information.
The fellowship provides up to $10,000. Eligible expenses include research materials, software, participant compensation, travel, publication costs, and other directly related expenses. A detailed budget is required.
Yes. Travel related to data collection, collaboration, or dissemination—such as the ANFA 2027 Conference—is allowed. Include such expenses in your detailed budget.
The fellowship is capped at $10,000 per year, with possible renewal for a second year. Additional external funding is permitted and should be documented if applicable.
Applications are evaluated on originality, feasibility, interdisciplinary integration, and the applicant’s demonstrated capability to complete the research with advisor support.
Highly competitive. Successful applicants demonstrate strong interdisciplinary integration, feasible methodology, and high-quality research objectives.
Generally, individual feedback is not provided due to high volume. Applicants are encouraged to consult advisors and review criteria for future submissions.
Fellows receive up to $10,000, guidance from their advisors, and access to ANFA’s network including Board members, peers, and community engagement opportunities.
There are no regular check-ins, but communication with advisors is expected. Fellows are required to present at the ANFA Conference in 2027.
Deferrals are considered on a case-by-case basis. Early communication with ANFA is advised to align with expectations and timelines.
You may apply for a second-year extension if needed. Delays should be discussed promptly with advisors and ANFA.
While not required, publication is strongly encouraged. Fellows are expected to present at the ANFA 2027 Conference and contribute to the research literature.
Fellows will present their work through oral presentations, posters, or panels. Details will be shared in advance to allow preparation.
Yes. You are welcome to reapply in future cycles if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
Contact the ANFA Fellowship Coordinator to request introductions. You may also connect through ANFA events or your advisors.
One example is Juan Luis Higuera Trujillo’s project on lighting and cognitive performance in classrooms, published in *Sustainability* and presented at ANFA 2023.