Summer Workshop in Research Methods

To apply, click here

or enter https://to.gmu.edu/gerXJQ in your browser.

For full consideration, please apply no later than Tuesday, March 31 ,2026. 

What is the Summer Workshop in Research Methods?

George Mason University is excited to host its fifth Summer Research Workshop, June 15-16, 2026, in collaboration with American University School of Education. 

Workshop attendance is free. Travel, housing, and meals are not included.

During this Summer Research Institute, participating fellows will:

• Explore the history of social science research methods and methodology.
• Develop tools for practice as researchers.
• Create research protocols.
• Build skills in participatory and community-based research practice.
• Grow peer networks and connect with research mentors for ongoing collaboration beyond the workshop.

Previous fellows who have attended the Summer Institute have found it to be a collaborative and participatory experience that both deepens and challenges their methods and methodological understandings and commitments. The Institute offers practical research skills and knowledge to its fellows, who engage in interactive workshops to co-create opportunities to explore and implement the Institute's discoveries in their own individual research.

Where is the workshop held?

The 2026 Summer Institute is held in person at George Mason University’s Mason Square Campus in Arlington, Virginia, and American University’s Spring Valley Campus in Washington, DC.

When is the Summer Institute?

The 2026 session will be held Monday, June 15 through Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Participants are expected to attend all sessions from Monday morning through Tuesday evening.

How can I participate in the workshop?

Summer Institute Fellows are selected through an application process. Interested individuals must submit an application via our application portal. Applications for the 2026 session will open in March 2026. This is a competitive process with a limited number of spaces available. After applications have closed, the Summer Institute leadership team will review all applications and carefully select applicants to invite to this workshop. 

Can I join virtually?

The Summer Institute is currently designed and equipped for in-person participation only. This is largely due to its highly collaborative and discussion-based nature. 

Who should apply?

Doctoral students with interest in careers in social science research (or related humanities fields). Students who are or intend to be research active, especially students in the pre-proposal stage of their program are ideally suited for this workshop. Students who have already submitted their proposals or who are dissertating are not suitable for this workshop.

Is this program competitive?

While we wish we could admit everyone who applies, we are only able to accept a limited number of fellows. Because of this, applicants should take special attention to fully complete the application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How much does it cost to participate in the Summer Institute?

Participation in the Summer Institute is free. Travel, housing and meals are not included and are the responsibility of each participant.

What is included in the Summer Institute?

If selected as a fellow, attendance at the Summer Institute is free of charge. Fellows will receive all workshop materials, including workbooks and assigned readings. Lunch and light snacks will also be provided each day of the Institute; all other meals are the responsibility of the attendee. Parking on campus will be included for the two days of the summer institute.

What is NOT included in the Summer Institute?

Travel, lodging, and other personal expenses are not included with acceptance to the Summer Institute. All accepted fellows are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of their own transportation and accommodations while attending the program at the George Mason University Arlington Campus and American University in Washington, D.C. 

What is the time commitment?

The Summer Institute will take place beginning Monday morning, June 15- Tuesday evening, June 16, 2026. If accepted, fellows will be asked to commit to the full schedule of the program. Fellows will need to be present for the full schedule of events.  If you are not able to commit to this schedule, we ask that you consider applying in a future year.

Additionally, fellows that accept their spot in the Summer Institute will be asked to join mandatory pre-Institute meetings, which will take place over Zoom in the weeks preceding the workshop.

What if I cannot be there for the whole schedule?

We ask that applicants not commit to the program unless they are able to stay for the entire duration of the scheduled program. If you are not able to commit to this schedule, we ask that you consider applying in a future year.

What do I need to bring with me to the Summer Institute?

Please bring a laptop and any additional materials you may need to fully participate in the workshops, such as a notebook and writing utensils. These items will help you take notes, engage in activities, and make the most of the conference experience.

What is a typical schedule for the Summer Institute?

Below is a sample schedule for the Institute. The schedule below is just a sample and is not necessarily reflective of the schedule for the upcoming 2026 session. It is intended to give applicants a sense of how out the Institute is laid out.

Summer Institute Partners

The Summer Institute is a collaboration of:

• • George Mason University
  • American University
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • University of Maryland

Summer Institute Sponsors

Sponsors at George Mason University include:

• • Center for Social Science Research (CSSR)
  • College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS)
  • Department of Sociology and Anthropology (SOAN)
  • Office of Civic Engagement and Civic Learning (CECIL)

To apply, click here
or enter https://to.gmu.edu/gerXJQ in your browser.
For full consideration, please apply no later than Tuesday, March 31 ,2026.