USA Harvard Kennedy School Arctic Initiative Fellowship 2026

The Arctic Initiative Fellowship 2026–2027 at the Harvard Kennedy School Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs is a prestigious opportunity for predoctoral, postdoctoral, and early-career researchers to advance policy-relevant research on the rapidly changing Arctic region. Hosted at the Belfer Center, this fellowship brings together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to address pressing issues such as sustainable ocean management, climate change impacts, permafrost thaw, resilience in Arctic communities, and emerging Arctic governance challenges.

This in-residence fellowship is designed for candidates who want to conduct cutting-edge research while engaging in collaboration, leadership, and interdisciplinary exchange at Harvard University.

The Harvard Kennedy School (HKS), located at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is one of the world’s leading schools of public policy and government. It is renowned for training leaders, policymakers, and changemakers who address global challenges through innovative research and practical solutions. HKS offers master’s, doctoral, and executive education programs across areas such as public administration, international development, public policy, and political leadership. With distinguished faculty, cutting-edge research centers like the Belfer Center, and a diverse international student body, Harvard Kennedy School provides a transformative environment that equips graduates to lead with impact in government, nonprofit, and private sectors worldwide.

Degree Level

Predoctoral (doctoral candidates or master’s degree holders with relevant experience)
Postdoctoral (PhD or equivalent degree holders)
Junior Faculty and Practitioners with relevant Arctic or policy expertise

Available Subjects

All subjects

Benefits

Stipend to support living expenses during the fellowship year.
Office space at the Belfer Center.
Travel funding for select conferences and workshops.
Access to Harvard’s world-class academic and research resources.
Collaborative opportunities with Harvard faculty, Arctic Initiative experts, policymakers, and other fellows.
Opportunity to publish peer-reviewed articles, policy briefs, or policy-relevant scholarly work.

Note: A limited number of funded fellowships are available, and applicants are encouraged to seek additional funding sources.

Eligible Nationalities

Open to applicants from all nationalities worldwide
Special encouragement for Arctic residents and Indigenous candidates

Eligibility Criteria

Predoctoral applicants must be accepted into a doctoral program or have completed a master’s degree with substantial research/professional experience.
Postdoctoral applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
Applications are also welcome from university faculty, government officials, military professionals, NGO staff, and private sector experts with demonstrated Arctic or policy experience.
Strong focus on policy-relevant research and contribution to Arctic governance and sustainability.
All fellows must be able to commit to residency at Harvard Kennedy School for the majority of the fellowship year.

Application Procedure

Applications open: October 1, 2025
Deadline for submission: December 1, 2025
Letters of recommendation due: December 15, 2025

Required Application Materials:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
Unofficial transcript (for predoctoral applicants)
Research statement (3–5 pages) with clear policy relevance
Writing sample (up to 50 pages, English, single-authored)
Contact details for 3 recommenders

Fellowship Duration:

One academic year (10 months, 2026–2027)

The Harvard Kennedy School Arctic Initiative Fellowship 2026–2027 is a rare opportunity for emerging and established researchers to contribute to global policy solutions for one of the most rapidly changing regions on Earth. By fostering research, dialogue, and leadership, the fellowship equips scholars and practitioners to shape a more secure, sustainable, and resilient Arctic future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is eligible for the Arctic Initiative Fellowship?

Eligibility extends to predoctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, junior faculty, policymakers, and practitioners with demonstrated expertise in Arctic-related issues or policy.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?

No, the fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities. In fact, Arctic residents and Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Is the fellowship fully funded?

A limited number of funded fellowships are available, which include a stipend, office space, and travel support. Applicants may also apply as partially funded or unfunded fellows, depending on their circumstances.

What kind of research proposals are prioritized?

Policy-focused proposals in areas such as sustainable ocean management, climate change and permafrost thaw, resilience in the Far North, and emerging Arctic issues are prioritized for 2026–2027.

Do fellows need to stay at Harvard for the entire fellowship?

Yes, fellows are expected to be in-residence at the Harvard Kennedy School for the majority of their fellowship period, actively participating in research and collaborative initiatives.