The Harvard Academy for International and Area Studies invites applications for the Academy Scholars Program 2026. This prestigious program supports outstanding early-career researchers in the social sciences whose work demonstrates excellence and integrates regional or language expertise outside the U.S. and Canada.
Academy Scholars receive a two-year, in-residence postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University with full funding, mentorship, and research support.
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When is the Application Deadline:
📅 September 19, 2025 (Recommendation letters due by September 29, 2025)
Tell Me About The Award:
The Harvard University Academy Scholars Program is a fully funded, two-year, in-residence postdoctoral fellowship at the Harvard Academy for International and Area Studies. It supports exceptional early-career researchers in the social sciences whose work combines disciplinary excellence with regional or linguistic expertise outside the United States and Canada.
Which Fields are Eligible?
✅ Social Sciences (all disciplines within the field)
Type:
🎓 Postdoctoral Fellowship | PhD Scholarship
Who can Apply?
- Recipients of a PhD (or equivalent) awarded within 2 years of August 1, 2026
- Advanced doctoral candidates in the social sciences (must provide proof of degree by June 30, 2026)
- ❌ Not eligible: Those who have already completed another postdoctoral fellowship
How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are evaluated by Harvard Academy Senior Scholars, who assess originality, resourcefulness, and the potential for a career in research universities or international institutions.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
🌍 All countries worldwide
Where will the Award be Taken?
📍 Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
How Many Awards?
5–6 Academy Scholars are selected each year
What is the Benefit of the Award?
💰 Annual stipend of $80,000
📚 Annual research support of $5,000
👩🏫 Mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, seminars, and professional development opportunities
🛑 Fellows may not accept other funding during their appointment
How Long Will the Award Last?
⏳ Two years (within a 3-year window)
- Year 1 must start no later than Fall 2026
- One-time leave (up to 12 months) allowed between Years 1 and 2 for tenure-track teaching positions
How to Apply:
- Prepare required documents (CV, research proposal, writing sample, transcripts, and 3 recommendation letters).
- Submit all materials online in PDF format by September 19, 2025.
- Ensure recommenders upload their letters by September 29, 2025.
- Results will be announced in December 2025.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details
🔗 Harvard Academy Scholars Program – Apply Online
