Brill Scholarship Program.

The Brill Publishing Scholarship Program aims to promote diversity and inclusion in the field of publishing, by giving talented candidates from underrepresented groups the opportunity to build a career in academic publishing. Administered by Brill, an international academic publisher founded in 1683, the scholarship helps fund a year-long paid internship at their Boston or Leiden offices.

The Brill Scholarship supports interns interested in pursuing roles in editorial, production, marketing, sales, or website development. Previous recipients have gone on to secure permanent positions with Brill after completing the program. Removing financial barriers allows those from disadvantaged backgrounds the chance to gain invaluable experience working directly with academics, authors, and book projects. The scholarship prioritizes ethnic minorities, first-generation students, LGBTQ individuals, veterans, and those identifying as disabled.

Application Process

Interested candidates must complete an online application consisting of basic personal details, a CV, a cover letter outlining their interest in academic publishing, and two letters of recommendation—one academic and one professional. For the 2023 scholarship cycle, applications are open until January 31st. Shortlisted candidates will then participate in phone interviews.

The selection committee weighs academic achievement, relevant experience such as internships or student jobs, strong writing skills, and a demonstrated passion for knowledge dissemination. Personal statements should convey how the intern would contribute diverse perspectives to the publisher. Finalists will be notified of the committee’s decision by mid-March.

Benefits and Responsibilities

The Brill Scholarship provides a $25,000 stipend to cover living expenses for the 12-month internship period starting in late August. Accommodation is not included but interns receive help finding housing near the office. Health insurance is also provided.

Under the guidance of a dedicated mentor, interns gain hands-on experience in their chosen department through participation in the full publishing process from submission review to marketing and distribution. Responsibilities vary based on the role but may involve evaluating book proposals, copyediting manuscripts, assisting with website content updates, event planning assistance, and more.

Networking opportunities abound through attendance at industry conferences and one-on-one meetings with publishing professionals. Interns grow their professional network while exploring potential career paths. By the program’s conclusion, they emerge prepared for an editorial assistant role or related starting position within academic publishing.

Recent Scholarship Recipients

Since the scholarship launched in 2017, Brill has selected interns from a wide range of academic disciplines and backgrounds. Emmanuel Anum-Mensah from Ghana was the 2019 intern specializing in digital marketing. He has since joined Brill full-time as an Online Marketing Specialist. The 2020 intern, Matthew McNaughton from the US, now works as a Production Editor after excelling in that department.

Other recipients include Anthropology PhD candidate Christopher Wilkins from Canada (2018) and Religious Studies graduate Rachel Burris (2021) who now edits Brill’s religion titles. These success stories demonstrate how the scholarship transforms the career trajectories of deserving candidates facing systemic obstacles. It also enriches the publisher with new perspectives that echo the diversity of modern academia.

Applying for the 2025 Brill Scholarship

If you have a passion for knowledge and want to gain entrée into academic publishing, the Brill Scholarship could be your launch pad. Applicants from any discipline are encouraged to carefully consider how they might add value and disseminate underrepresented ideas.

Take time to reflect on relevant experience, craft a compelling personal statement, and have your recommendation letters emphasize traits like initiative, problem-solving, and enthusiasm for intercultural communication. Proofread thoroughly and be sure to meet the deadline. The scholarship is highly competitive but for the right candidate, it presents an unparalleled opportunity to start a long-term career in intellectual stewardship.

All the best!