Rice University Hosts Humanities Summer Institute

Graduate students and early-career scholars to gather for professional development program

Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:00am

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Rice University's Humanities Research Center, in collaboration with the University of Florida's Center for the Humanities and the Public Sphere, is inviting applications from graduate students and early-career scholars in the humanities for a one-week summer institute to be held May 4-8, 2026 in Gainesville, Florida. The goal of the program is to support participants in navigating the complex academic and professional landscape through workshops on leadership, communication, and professional development.

Why it matters

The summer institute aims to address the significant challenges facing higher education in the humanities, including unprecedented reforms, funding cuts, and policy restrictions. By bringing together scholars from two prominent humanities centers, the program seeks to provide valuable professional development opportunities and explore lateral career alternatives beyond traditional academic paths.

The details

The one-week summer institute will feature a range of workshops and activities designed to support graduate students and early-career scholars in the humanities. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about leadership, communication, and professional development for careers both within and outside of academia. Transportation, accommodation, and some meals will be covered for attendees.

  • The summer institute will be held from May 4-8, 2026.
  • The application deadline is in March 2026.
  • Notification of acceptance will be sent on March 30, 2026.

The players

Rice University Humanities Research Center

A prominent humanities research center at Rice University, a comprehensive research university located in Houston, Texas.

University of Florida Center for the Humanities and the Public Sphere

A humanities research center at the University of Florida, located in Gainesville, Florida.

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What’s next

Interested graduate students and early-career scholars in the humanities can apply for the summer institute by the March 2026 deadline.

The takeaway

This summer institute represents a valuable opportunity for humanities scholars to come together and develop the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complex academic and professional landscape, exploring both traditional and alternative career paths.