Ernest May Fellowship in History and Policy 2027-2028: Stipend Available

Applications are now open for the Ernest May Fellowship in History and Policy for the 2027-2028 academic year. This fellowship is designed for scholars who focus on historical research with policy implications. It offers a stipend and access to Harvard University’s resources.

Application Closing Date: December 1, 2026
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Programme Duration: 2027-2028 Academic Year
Stipend: $65,000 USD (postdoctoral/advanced research), $55,000 USD (predoctoral)
Minimum Qualification: PhD or equivalent research experience in History or related fields

About the Ernest May Fellowship in History and Policy

The Ernest May Fellowship in History and Policy honors Ernest May, a distinguished figure in American History and a member of the Belfer Center’s board. The fellowship supports research that bridges historical analysis with contemporary policy challenges. Fellows are integrated into the Applied History Project and the International Security Program.

This program encourages scholars to explore how historical understanding can inform current policy decisions. It provides a unique environment for research and intellectual exchange. The fellowship aims to foster a deeper connection between historical scholarship and practical policy-making.

About Harvard University

Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Harvard’s mission is to advance knowledge, educate students, and serve society.

The university is renowned for its academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines. It comprises eleven academic faculties and schools, plus the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study. Harvard is home to extensive libraries and research facilities, supporting groundbreaking work by faculty and students.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The Ernest May Fellowship is open to scholars with a strong historical focus in their research. While preference is given to History PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, scholars from other fields whose work has significant historical depth are also encouraged to apply. The fellowship supports individual research projects.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful fellows will benefit from a supportive academic environment and financial assistance. The fellowship includes an annual stipend to cover living expenses and research costs. Postdoctoral fellows who received their PhD within the last five years are eligible for benefits, including health insurance.

Fellows will have access to Harvard University’s extensive library system and other research facilities. They will also receive mentorship from leading academics in international affairs and U.S.-Asia relations. This provides an excellent opportunity for professional development and networking.

Programme Duration and Location

The Ernest May Fellowship runs for the full 2027-2028 academic year. The fellowship is based at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. Fellows will be housed within the Applied History Project and the International Security Program.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate a strong historical focus in their research projects. Preference will be given to PhD students in History or postdoctoral researchers. Scholars from other disciplines whose work has a significant historical component will also be considered.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates should possess strong research and analytical skills. The ability to conduct in-depth historical research is essential. Applicants should also demonstrate potential for policy-relevant scholarship.

Excellent written communication skills are required, as evidenced by the writing sample. The ability to engage with complex historical and policy issues is also important. A willingness to contribute to the intellectual community at Harvard is valued.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for early-career scholars and advanced researchers who are passionate about understanding the past to inform the present. It suits individuals who are looking to deepen their research on topics with policy implications. If you are a historian or a scholar in a related field seeking to connect your work to current events, this fellowship is a strong opportunity.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• A current CV or Resume.
• An unofficial transcript (for predoctoral fellow applicants only).
• A research statement, between 3 to 5 pages long.
• A writing sample, less than 50 pages. This should be a single published or unpublished piece written by the applicant, demonstrating English-language writing ability. Co-authored pieces are not accepted.
• Contact information for three recommenders who will submit letters on your behalf.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply online through the Harvard University application portal. Ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted before the deadline. Carefully review the application instructions on the official fellowship page to ensure all requirements are met.

Click here to apply for the Ernest May Fellowship in History and Policy.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants are responsible for ensuring their recommenders submit their letters by the deadline. The writing sample must be an individual piece of work.

Closing Date

The closing date for the Ernest May Fellowship in History and Policy 2027-2028 is December 1, 2026.

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