The Weatherhead Scholars Program Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-27 at Harvard University offers an extraordinary opportunity for emerging scholars in international affairs and social sciences. This fully funded fellowship brings together a diverse cohort of academics and practitioners from around the globe, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and groundbreaking research. Selected fellows benefit from Harvard’s world-class resources, a competitive salary, and a prestigious platform to advance their scholarly careers. Applications are now open, with a deadline of October 15, 2025.

About Harvard University

Harvard University, established in 1636 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is the oldest higher education institution in the United States. Renowned for its excellence in teaching and research, Harvard consistently ranks among the top global universities. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, Harvard is ranked 4th worldwide, and in the Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings 2025, it holds the 3rd position.

The Weatherhead Center at Harvard serves as a hub for international, transnational, and comparative research, bringing together leading experts to address global challenges. By joining this fellowship, scholars access unparalleled research facilities, libraries, and academic networks.

Harvard Weatherhead Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-27 Overview

Fellowship Name	Weatherhead Scholars Program Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-2027
Host University	Harvard University
Location	Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Degree Level	Postdoctoral
Fellowship Type	Fully funded (salary + benefits)
Salary	USD $70,000 (12 months)
Eligibility	Recent PhD graduates in social sciences (within past 3 years)
Application Deadline	October 15, 2025
Letter of Recommendation Deadline	October 22, 2025

Fellowship Benefits

Fellows accepted into the Weatherhead Scholars Program will receive:

• Annual salary of USD $70,000 (paid over 12 months)
• Full eligibility for Harvard University benefits
• Opportunity to join a highly competitive interdisciplinary cohort
• You’ll be accessing Harvard’s extensive research libraries, archives, and facilities
• Professional development through seminars, workshops, and academic networks
•  Collaboration with distinguished faculty and international scholars
• Prestige of being affiliated with one of the top global universities

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Applicants must possess a **PhD in social sciences**—including fields like international affairs, political science, sociology, history, economics, environmental studies, or closely related disciplines.
2. Degree must have been earned within the past three years or completed before the fellowship start date.
3. You must show a strong interest in the research field of international, transnational, or comparative issues.
4. Submit all required application documents by the deadline.

Fellowship Tracks

The Weatherhead Scholars Program offers three dedicated fellowship categories:

• Raphael Morrison Dorman Fellowship – Open to social scientists conducting research on any international affairs discipline.
• Moulay Hicham Alaoui Fellowship on Climate and the Environment – For scholars researching climate and environmental issues in the Middle East and North Africa.
• Sang-Kee Kim Fellowship on East and Southeast Asia – Dedicated to research centered on East and Southeast Asia, with the exception of Japan and China.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must upload the following documents via the Harvard ARIeS system:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research
• Dissertation Abstract
• Research Interests (200 characters)
• Research Plan (200–300 words, including why Harvard is the right place for the project and intended outcomes)

Additionally, applicants must provide contact details of recommenders, who will upload their letters by October 22, 2025.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply successfully:

• Visit the official fellowship announcement.
• Log in or register at the Harvard ARIeS portal.
• Complete the application form and upload all required documents.
• Provide contact details of referees (letters due by October 22, 2025).
• Submit your application before the October 15, 2025 deadline.
• You can check the status of your application and recommendation letter through the portal.

Comparison with Similar Postdoctoral Fellowships

Fellowship	Host University	Funding	Deadline
Weatherhead Scholars Program	Harvard University	$70,000 + benefits	Oct 15, 2025
Princeton Society of Fellows	Princeton University	$88,800 + research fund	Aug 6, 2025
Yale International Affairs Postdoc	Yale University	$65,000 + benefits	Sept 15, 2025
Stanford International Studies Postdoc	Stanford University	$68,000 + research support	Oct 10, 2025

FAQs ABout Harvard Weatherhead Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-27

1. Who can apply for the Weatherhead Scholars Program?
   Postdoctoral scholars in social sciences who received their PhD within the last three years.
2. How many fellows are selected annually?
   Each year, 5–10 postdoctoral fellows are selected through a competitive process.
3. Is the Weatherhead Scholars Program at Harvard fully funded?
   Yes. Fellows receive $70,000 salary plus Harvard benefits.
4. Can non-U.S. citizens apply?
   Yes, the fellowship is open to international applicants worldwide.
5. What are the dedicated fellowship categories?
   Raphael Morrison Dorman Fellowship, Moulay Hicham Alaoui Fellowship, and Sang-Kee Kim Fellowship.
6. What is the acceptance rate?
   The program is highly competitive, with an average acceptance rate of 5%.
7. Are recommendation letters required?
   Yes, referees must upload letters by October 22, 2025.
8. Can I apply if my dissertation has not yet defended?
   Yes, as long as the degree requirements are completed before the fellowship start date.
9. What kind of research does the university support?
   Research related to international, transnational, or comparative issues.
10. When will I get the results?
    Selected applicants are generally notified by spring 2026.

Important Notes

• Make sure to send your application earlier to allow referees time to upload recommendation letters.
• Clearly align your research plan with Harvard’s resources and faculty expertise.
• Ensure your research demonstrates global relevance and interdisciplinary potential.

If you are an emerging scholar eager to advance your research in international affairs with one of the world’s most prestigious universities, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply before October 15, 2025 to secure your place in the Weatherhead Scholars Program Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026-2027 at Harvard University. APPLY NOW.