Its purpose is to assist a limited number of outstanding recent recipients of the PhD, within the last three years (no earlier than 2020 for the 2023 application year), in a field of Jewish studies in publishing their first book, launching their scholarly career, and/or furthering research in their area of special interest. To be eligible for this program, applicants must be graduates of a PhD program in a field of Jewish specialization who achieved superior grades in graduate school, who completed their dissertations with distinction, and who show promise of distinguished academic careers. The Head of the Department at which the applicant completed their PhD, or the dissertation supervisor, should write a letter of nomination for each potential applicant which includes the following detailed information: (1) The applicantÔÇÖs background and abilities and (2) The merit and feasibility of the proposed project including its plan and methodology. The information provided will be treated confidentially. Two additional letters of reference supporting the applicantÔÇÖs candidacy are also required.