Harvard University Berkman Klein Center Fellowship Program 2026
The Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society Fellowship Program at Harvard University is a prestigious opportunity for scholars, researchers, and practitioners working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, technology, law, ethics, and public policy. Hosted at Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the fellowship supports independent, interdisciplinary research that advances the public interest and shapes the future governance of AI and digital technologies.
Degree Level
- Postdoctoral
- Doctoral (PhD holders or candidates with equivalent experience)
- Professional / Practitioner Fellowship
Available Subjects
- Artificial Intelligence Governance
- Agentic AI
- Language Model Interpretability
- AI Ethics and Human Rights
- Technology & the Law
- Internet Governance
- AI Policy and Regulation
- Benchmarking and Evaluation of AI Systems
- AI and the Human Experience
Benefits
- Monthly stipend of up to USD 6,250 (up to USD 75,000 for a 12-month fellowship), depending on funding pathway
- Opportunity to conduct independent research at Harvard University
- Access to Harvard libraries, research facilities, and academic resources
- Shared office space at the Berkman Klein Center (for fellows in residence)
- Engagement with a global network of scholars, policymakers, technologists, and civil society leaders
- Opportunities to publish public scholarship, policy briefs, open-source tools, and academic research
- Option to audit courses across Harvard University (with instructor permission)
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to all nationalities
- International applicants are eligible
- Visa sponsorship is available for selected fellows through Harvard University (subject to eligibility)
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Berkman Klein Center Fellowship Program, applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrated experience in research, policy, technology development, academia, or civil society
- Strong interest in AI governance, ethics, law, or societal impacts of technology
- Ability to propose and lead an independent research project aligned with the Center’s priorities
- Excellent communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences
- For technical research applicants:
- PhD in Computer Science or a related field or equivalent practical experience
- Proficiency in Python and modern AI/ML frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, JAX)
- For non-technical applicants:
- Background in law, policy, social sciences, humanities, journalism, or related disciplines
- Willingness to engage with the Berkman Klein Center community
Application Procedure
The application process for the Berkman Klein Center Fellowship Program is completed online and includes the following steps:
- Complete the online fellowship application form
- Upload a CV (PDF)
- Submit a 1–2 page cover letter explaining your background, motivation, and fit with the Berkman Klein Center
- Submit a 2–3 page project proposal outlining your research idea, methods, and expected public impact
- Upload 1–3 work samples combined into a single PDF
- Provide contact information for two professional references
- Indicate preferred fellowship duration, funding pathway, and residency plans
Applications are reviewed competitively, and selected finalists may be contacted for references or additional information.
Why Apply to the Berkman Klein Center Fellowship?
The Berkman Klein Center Fellowship stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, openness to both academics and practitioners, and strong emphasis on public-interest research. Fellows contribute to shaping global conversations on AI governance while working within one of the world’s most influential academic environments.
