The Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship seeks to stimulate and support increased scholarship on cultural exchanges between the African continent and the Mediterranean world during the period c. 1250-1750. It is a six-month residential fellowship for the spring term of 2026 (January-June). In light of the residential nature of the fellowship, Fellows must live in the Florence area and spend at least three days a week at the Center.

The fellowship is designed for post-doctoral scholars in fields related to the study of African history, including art history, archeology, the history of expressive cultures, musicology, economic history, intellectual, political, and religious history, as well as literature and languages. Preference will be given to advanced research projects that address the relationship between the African continent and Italy during the early modern period, broadly understood historically to include the period from the 14th through the 17th centuries. 

Eligibility
At the time of application, scholars must have a PhD in hand and will be asked to upload a scan of the certificate. They must not be working on a second PhD. Applicants must be fluent in either English, Italian, or French. Successful applicants will have a solid background in African history and its global exchanges in the early modern world. Candidates offered the fellowship will spend a six-month term in Florence at I Tatti with access to local and regional resources (libraries, photographic collections, archives, museums, collections). The fellow will be expected to carry out original research on the topic for which they have been awarded their fellowship. The proposed research project may represent a segment of a larger project.

Term Fellowships at I Tatti can be held only once and cannot be deferred. Term Fellowships are intended for scholars who have not previously held appointments at I Tatti (with the exception of Graduate Fellows). 

The Fellow is responsible for obtaining a visa, permesso di soggiorno, and health coverage (and, if appropriate, for accompanying family members). The Fellow must determine if a visa is required and, if necessary, obtain one before travel.