Harvard University’s Weatherhead Scholars Program 2026 is now open for applications, offering a prestigious opportunity for academics, researchers, and accomplished professionals from around the globe to engage in cutting-edge research and dialogue on international affairs. Housed at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs—Harvard’s largest international social science research hub—the program welcomes approximately thirty affiliates each year through a highly competitive selection process.
About the Program
The Weatherhead Scholars Program brings together visiting faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and practitioner fellows from diverse backgrounds, including diplomacy, journalism, civil society, the military, academia, and the private sector. Affiliates conduct independent research on international, transnational, and comparative issues while participating in an interdisciplinary community that bridges scholarship and practice.
Most scholars remain in residence for the full academic year, although one-semester appointments are also possible. Participants are expected to commit actively to the intellectual life of the Weatherhead Center.
Categories of Fellows
Postdoctoral Fellows
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- Open to recent PhD graduates (within 3 years) in social sciences.
- Research must focus on international, transnational, or comparative topics.
Funding Opportunities include:
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- Raphael Morrison Dorman Fellowship (general international affairs research)
- Moulay Hicham Alaoui Fellowship (climate and environment in the MENA region)
- Sang-Kee Kim Fellowship (East and Southeast Asia research)
- Salary: USD $70,000 for 2026–2027, plus Harvard benefits.
Only about 5% of applicants are accepted each year.
Visiting Scholars
- For tenured or tenure-track faculty (or international equivalents) in social sciences.
- Applicants must hold a PhD and be actively engaged in relevant research.
- Administrative fee: USD $10,000 per academic year (or $5,000 per semester).
- Candidates typically secure funding through sabbatical salary or external grants.
Practitioner Fellows
- For mid-career or senior professionals, including diplomats, journalists, NGO leaders, civil servants, and private sector experts.
- Applicants must propose a project aligned with the Weatherhead Center’s mission.
- Administrative fee: USD $25,000 per year (or $12,500 per semester).
- Fellows are expected to engage deeply with Harvard’s academic and policy communities.
Apply: https://mesana.org/resources-and-opportunities/2025/08/19/weatherhead-scholars-program123
Application Deadlines
The application deadline for the Weatherhead Scholars Program varies by category. Postdoctoral Fellows and Visiting Scholars must submit their applications by October 15, 2025, while Practitioner Fellows have until February 15, 2026 to complete their submissions.