In 2012, PoLAR: Political and Legal Anthropology Review launched the Digital Editorial Fellows (def) Program for graduate students interested in enhancing their knowledge and experience in scholarly electronic communication and publishing, and developing their networks of mentorship and scholarly exchange. The program is part of an effort to expand the virtual presence of the journal, foster dialogue among members, and continue APLA’s tradition of graduate student mentorship in the field. Working with PoLAR Associate Editor Jennifer Curtis and APLA Webmaster Randi Irwin, fellows develop themes for virtual editions, emergent conversations, and collaboratively create new web-based features and initiatives. We are particularly interested in proposals to develop web-based, free-to-access PoLAR Online features. There is substantial scope for creative approaches to publishing and we seek to support a range of proposals that address topics at the core of PoLAR’s focus.
Program Overview
The official program begins in December 2020, ending with the close of the AAA annual meetings held in November 2021. However, Fellows are welcome to stay on beyond the first year.
The program itself follows three modules, the first being an introductory and brainstorming component, the second being a development and implementation phase, and the last being a critical reflection (and commendation!).
A general outline of the program is below:
Introduction and Brainstorming
- Distribute general readings on digital humanities scholarship as well as targeted articles related to archiving, publishing, and digital anthropology/ethnography
- Virtually meet with the Associate Editor and other fellows to discuss general ideas for open-access journal content and complementary web-only content
Development and Implementation
- Develop themes and materials for virtual editions, emergent conversations, Speaking Justice to Power series and any new initiatives
- Delegate specific tasks related to creation and editing of new materials
- Solicit participation from scholars, activists, community members, and other organizations
Critical Reflections
- De-brief and review program achievements and challenges
- Reflect on how it may inform our other work–academic or otherwise
- Share and celebrate!
Application Information
The deadline for applications is October 31, 2020. We ask candidates to submit:
- Statement of research interests and proposals for features (1 page)
- Short CV (including contact details for 2 academic references)
To apply, submit the application materials through Google forms at:
Please direct all enquiries or questions to Jennifer Curtis at jennifer.curtis@ed.ac.uk. The selected cohort receives notification of selection and introductory materials in late November or earlier.
PoLAR: Political and Legal Anthropology Review 
