Things work slightly differntly in my department, but I'm starting to get funding worries as well. I have funding through the next 1.5 years, which should be enough as long as I don't run into any huge problems along the way. However, if the method I am putting together turns out to not work, I could be in trouble very quickly. It used to be relatively easy to get an extension of funding on my fellowship, but they have clampped down do to budget constraints. I have figured I can ride an extra quarter on my savings if need be, but much longer than that an things will get very difficult. I'm just hoping that everything goes smoothly.

I'm pretty sure you will be accepted for one of the fellowships. You have a strong record of research and publications that I'm sure will make you outshine most of the applicants.