Dr. Najmaldin Karim Research Fellowship in Kurdish Political Studies
The Kurdish Political Studies Program (KPSP) is currently accepting applications for the Dr. Najmaldin Karim Fellowship aimed at undergraduate students at UCF. The fellow will work on a research project related to Kurdish politics, broadly defined, under the supervision of KPSP faculty in the spring 2026 semester. This research aims to produce a final paper worthy of publication, enrich the fellow’s academic credentials, and provide a unique opportunity to gain in-depth insights into Kurdish politics. The fellow students will receive $1,000 for the semester. All financial aid rules and regulations apply.
Application Requirements
• A minimum GPA of 3.5
• A one-page letter of interest
• A writing sample (e.g., term paper submitted in a class)
• An unofficial copy of transcript
• A resume with two listed academic references
Submission Requirements
Students should submit their application to Dr. Mehmet Gurses, Director of Kurdish Studies, at gurses@ucf.edu by October 31, 2025. A committee of UCF faculty will select the fellow.
Previous Fellows
Abigail English – Spring 2026
Beyond Sovereignty: A Comparative Study of Paradiplomacy
“My time as the 2026 Dr. Najmaldin Karim Research Fellow was the perfect experience to finish my senior year at the University of Central Florida. Working closely with faculty, I had the chance to dive deeply into Kurdish political studies and undertake a long-term research paper, which many undergrads do not have the opportunity to pursue. It was challenging, interesting, and above all, a great way to get involved in Kurdish issues. Because of this experience, I would love the chance to one day visit Kurdistan, and I would recommend this fellowship to all of my peers in the School of Politics, Security, and International Affairs.“
Farah Shah – Spring 2025
Hannah Hillsgrove – Spring 2024
Myli Sangria – Spring 2023
Hannah Barnes – Spring 2022
Mohammed Al-Awwad – Fall 2021
Sophia Griement – Fall 2020
Alexi Sadaka – Spring 2020
Jenna Dovydaitis – Spring 2019
Margaret Morgan – Spring 2018
Kellan Ritter – Spring 2017