Harvard University

The Harvard Kennedy School Arctic Initiative Fellowship 2026–2027 offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers, policymakers, and emerging scholars to conduct policy-focused Arctic research at Harvard University. Hosted by the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, the fellowship brings together experts from around the world to address critical issues affecting the Arctic through interdisciplinary research and policy engagement.

Open to predoctoral scholars, postdoctoral researchers, junior faculty members, and experienced professionals, this fellowship provides access to Harvard’s academic resources, renowned faculty, and a global network of Arctic specialists. Depending on available funding, selected fellows may receive full or partial financial support for the academic year.

Whether your research focuses on climate change, Arctic governance, sustainable development, or Indigenous communities, this fellowship provides an ideal platform to advance impactful research while contributing to international policy discussions.

About Harvard Kennedy School and the Belfer Center

The Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) is one of the world’s leading institutions for public policy, governance, and international affairs. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, HKS prepares future leaders through world-class education and research.

The fellowship is hosted by the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, a globally recognized research institute that develops practical solutions to major international challenges. Through its Arctic Initiative, the center promotes research and collaboration on environmental, political, economic, and security issues affecting the rapidly changing Arctic region.

Fellowship Overview

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds whose work contributes to Arctic policy and governance.

Predoctoral Fellows

Applicants should be enrolled in a PhD program or possess a master’s degree with significant research experience relevant to Arctic studies.

Postdoctoral Fellows

Candidates must have completed a PhD or an equivalent doctoral qualification before the fellowship begins.

Junior Faculty and Professionals

The program also encourages applications from:

• University faculty
• Government officials
• Policy analysts
• NGO professionals
• Private-sector experts
• Researchers working on Arctic-related issues

This broad eligibility makes it one of the most inclusive Harvard research fellowships available for international scholars.

Research Areas

Applicants from all disciplines are welcome, provided their proposed research contributes to Arctic policy and governance.

Priority Research Topics

• Arctic governance
• Climate change adaptation
• Sustainable ocean management
• Permafrost thaw
• Community resilience
• Environmental sustainability
• International cooperation in the Arctic
• Arctic security and public policy
• Indigenous knowledge and community development

Interdisciplinary proposals that combine science, policy, economics, law, or social sciences are particularly encouraged.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive access to Harvard’s exceptional academic environment along with financial and professional support.

Financial Support

Funding varies by fellowship category and available resources.

Benefits may include:

• Living stipend
• Fully funded or partially funded fellowship support
• Travel funding for approved conferences and research activities

Academic Resources

Fellows gain access to:

• Office space at the Belfer Center
• Harvard libraries and research databases
• Faculty mentorship
• Seminars and policy workshops
• Collaborative research opportunities

Professional Development

Participants also benefit from:

• Networking with international policymakers
• Collaboration with leading Arctic researchers
• Publication opportunities
• Participation in public policy discussions
• Exposure to global decision-makers

Eligible Nationalities

The fellowship welcomes applicants from all countries.

Researchers from Arctic regions and Indigenous communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should carefully review the fellowship requirements before submitting an application.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must satisfy one of the following:

• Be enrolled in a PhD program
• Hold a master’s degree with relevant research experience
• Hold a completed PhD or equivalent doctorate
• Be an early-career academic or policy professional

Research Requirements

Applicants must submit a proposal that:

• Focuses on policy-relevant Arctic research
• Demonstrates originality and academic quality
• Aligns with the Arctic Initiative’s research priorities
• Shows potential policy impact

Residency Requirement

Successful fellows are expected to spend the majority of the fellowship period in residence at Harvard University to participate actively in research activities and collaborative programs.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
• Unofficial academic transcript (Predoctoral applicants only)
• Research proposal (3–5 pages)
• Writing sample (maximum 50 pages, single-authored and in English)
• Contact information for three referees

Strong research proposals should clearly explain the project’s objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and policy relevance.

Important Dates

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their materials well before the deadline to allow sufficient time for recommendation letters.

Fellowship Duration

The fellowship runs for one academic year (10 months) during the 2026–2027 academic session.

Why Apply for the Harvard Arctic Initiative Fellowship?

The Harvard Kennedy School Arctic Initiative Fellowship offers much more than financial support. Fellows become part of a globally respected research community working on some of today’s most urgent environmental and governance challenges.

Participants benefit from Harvard’s academic excellence while collaborating with internationally recognized experts, influencing policy discussions, and expanding their professional networks. For researchers seeking to make meaningful contributions to Arctic policy, sustainability, and climate research, this fellowship provides an exceptional platform for academic and professional growth.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the online application through the official Harvard Kennedy School fellowship portal before the application deadline. Ensure all required documents are submitted and recommendation letters are arranged well in advance.