Athlete Mental Health Research Fellow - Athletes for Hope

Athlete Mental Health Research Fellow

Summary and Application Instructions

The Athlete Mental Health Research Fellow will support and expand AFH’s mission by contributing to cutting-edge research in sports psychiatry and athlete mental health. This fellowship is ideal for graduate students, early-career clinicians, or researchers passionate about athlete well-being and mental health equity. Fellows will engage in literature reviews, data analysis, grant writing, and the development of evidence-based toolkits and content to shape AFH programming and national initiatives

Interested candidates should send their resume/CV to Mena Mirhom (mmirhom@athletesforhope.org) along with a 1-page cover letter detailing your interest in athlete mental health and a writing sample (research-focused preferred). Application deadline is 6/1/25.

Position Description

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct literature reviews on athlete mental health trends, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and performance-related stress
  • Assist in the design and analysis of research studies evaluating AFH programming impact
  • Collaborate with AFH’s Chief Wellbeing Officer and external partners to produce white papers, op-eds, and peer-reviewed publications
  • Develop athlete-facing mental health toolkits and resources grounded in research and best practices
  • Support data collection and reporting for grants and stakeholder communications
  • Stay abreast of emerging research in sports psychiatry, performance psychology, and mental health interventions for athletes
  • Present research findings in webinars, conferences, or educational settings when applicable

Qualifications

  • Graduate student, resident, or early-career professional in psychology, psychiatry, public health, social work, sports science, or a related field
  • Demonstrated interest in athlete mental health, performance psychology, or sports psychiatry
  • Strong writing and analytical skills with experience in academic or professional research
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams
  • Experience working with athlete populations is preferred but not required

Fellowship Benefits

  • Mentorship from leading experts in psychiatry, public health, and athlete mental health
  • National platform to contribute to meaningful, high-impact advocacy and research
  • Access to AFH’s network of athletes, researchers, and mental health professionals
  • Stipend provided (amount commensurate with experience and availability)