The Harvard Academy Scholars Program 2026 is a premier two year in residence postdoctoral fellowship. It is designed for promising researchers in the social sciences with strong regional expertise outside the United States and Canada. If you are a new PhD graduate or an advanced candidate this can be your launchpad into global research recognition.
What Is the Harvard Academy Scholars Program
This fellowship is offered by the Harvard Academy for International and Area Studies which is based at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs. It invites early career social scientists who study regions beyond North America to spend two enriching years at Harvard. Scholars join a diverse and interdisciplinary group to advance knowledge with a global perspective.
Eligibility Who Can Apply
To qualify you must
- Have completed your PhD on or after August 1 2024 or be close to defending your thesis and submit your degree by June 30 2026
- Conduct research that combines a social science discipline with focus on a region outside the United States and Canada
- Not have held a prior postdoctoral fellowship
How Much Support Do You Get
The program offers
- Annual stipend of US 80000
- Research fund of US 5000 per year
- Access to Harvard facilities health insurance and travel support
Timing Deadlines and Key Dates
- Application deadline September 19 2025
- Recommendation letters deadline September 29 2025
- Finalist interviews early December 2025
- Results announcement December 2025
- Program start August 1 2026
Perks of Being a Scholar
- Community support including mentorship dinners and seminars with senior scholars
- Resources to polish dissertation chapters into published work and build networks on campus
- Flexibility with a one time 12 month leave allowed between year one and year two for tenure track transitions
Application Essentials
Applicants must prepare
- A CV with publications
- A 2000 word research proposal excluding references
- A writing sample of up to 50 pages which can be a dissertation chapter or journal article
- A PhD transcript copy
- Three recommendation letters
Selection Process and Tips
Important factors
- Originality and global focus show creativity and deep knowledge of your chosen region
- Interdisciplinary strength demonstrate how you bridge methods and area based insights
- Clear writing ensure your proposal is direct and compelling
- Strong referees choose mentors who highlight your independence and research value
Practical tip
Reach out politely to senior Harvard faculty and introduce your project. This shows initiative and interest.
Living and Working in Cambridge
Living in Cambridge Massachusetts is a rewarding experience
- On campus you will attend seminars mentoring sessions and networking events
- Off campus you can enjoy Boston history Harvard Square and diverse dining
- Work life balance is easier with generous funding travel opportunities and academic breaks
Real World Value and Career Impact
This fellowship brings more than financial benefits
- Prestige and recognition Harvard postdocs are highly respected worldwide
- Publishing support with a strong environment to turn your thesis into articles and books
- Networking with fellow scholars who often become future collaborators