Shape Global Conversations with Harvard Weatherhead Scholarship Program 2026
Program Overview
The Weatherhead Scholars Program annually selects around thirty exceptional fellows from around the world. The fellowship brings together visiting faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and practitioner fellows to foster a unique intellectual community at Harvard. Participants benefit from Harvard’s resources, global networks, and a collaborative environment bridging academia, policy, and practice.
Fellowship Tracks and Eligibility
The Weatherhead Scholarship Program 2026–2027 offers three distinct fellowship tracks tailored to different career stages and expertise
Postdoctoral Fellows
Open to scholars who have earned a PhD within the last three years or will complete all degree requirements by the fellowship start date
Focus on international, comparative, or transnational issues in fields such as political science, sociology, economics, history, environmental studies, or related disciplines
Funding Opportunities include the Raphael Morrison Dorman Fellowship for all social sciences in international affairs, the Moulay Hicham Alaoui Fellowship for climate and environmental research in the Middle East and North Africa, and the Sang-Kee Kim Fellowship for East and Southeast Asia research (excluding China and Japan)
Benefits include a USD $70,000 salary, Harvard benefits, and a one-year academic appointment
Visiting Scholars
Open to tenured or tenure-track faculty or equivalent international positions
Requires a PhD in relevant social sciences and an active research agenda in international or comparative topics
Applicants are expected to secure their own funding through sabbatical salary or external research grants
Administrative fee USD $10,000 for the academic year or $5,000 per semester
Practitioner Fellows
Postdoctoral Fellows
Open to mid-career or senior professionals in diplomacy, journalism, NGOs, military, elected office, civil service, or private sector leadership
Requires at least a bachelor’s degree and a strong record of impact in international affairs
Fellows propose a project aligned with the Weatherhead Center’s mission and participate actively in program activities
Administrative fee USD $25,000 for the academic year or $12,500 per semester
Why Apply to Weatherhead Scholars Program
The Weatherhead Scholarship Program provides an extraordinary opportunity to engage with Harvard’s vibrant intellectual community, access world-class research resources, and contribute to meaningful scholarship and policy on global issues. Fellows gain exposure to interdisciplinary collaborations, enrich their professional networks, and participate in shaping solutions for complex international challenges.
Application Deadline and Process
All fellowship tracks require applications to be submitted by October 15, 2025. Applicants should prepare a comprehensive application including CV, research or project proposal, and relevant supporting materials as per the chosen track.