Carr-Ryan Center Fellowship 2026–2027

The Carr-Ryan Center Fellowship 2026–2027 at Harvard Kennedy School is a prestigious one-year program designed for scholars and practitioners whose work aligns with the Center’s priorities in human rights and public leadership.

📚 About the Fellowship

The fellowship provides a unique opportunity for individuals to engage in research, teaching, and leadership development within the vibrant academic environment of Harvard Kennedy School.

🎁 Benefits of the Fellowship

Academic & Professional Development

• Research & Writing: Dedicated time to pursue your own research projects and publications.
• Auditing Classes: Access to Harvard Kennedy School courses to broaden knowledge.
• Faculty & Expert Engagement: Opportunities to meet and collaborate with leading scholars and practitioners.
• Leading Study Groups: Chance to mentor and guide students, enhancing teaching and leadership skills.

Networking & Collaboration

• Community Access: Integration into the Harvard Kennedy School environment, fostering connections with faculty, fellows, and students.
• Exposure to Experts: Regular interaction with thought leaders in human rights, governance, and public policy.

Facilities & Resources

• Office Space (Limited): Occasional or shared office space in Cambridge/Boston for fellows who wish to be in residence.
• Learning Opportunities: Participation in seminars, workshops, and other academic events hosted by the Center.

Career Impact

• Prestige: Affiliation with Harvard Kennedy School enhances professional credibility.
• Platform for Influence: Fellows can contribute to shaping discourse on human rights and governance.
• Support for Sabbatical/Leadership Roles: Ideal for academics on sabbatical or leaders in organizations seeking a year of reflection and research.

✅ Fellowship Requirements

The fellowship is open to:

• Post-docs, scholars, and academics on sabbatical
• Human rights defenders
• Senior leaders in international organizations
• Heads of human rights organizations

Additional requirements:

• Both emerging and established scholars/practitioners are welcome.
• Applicants must align their research/practice with the Center’s priorities.

📝 Application Process

Required Documents:

1. Resume/CV
2. Research Proposal: Include how it fits with the Carr Center's research and programmatic priorities, specific faculty, and your qualifications (up to 3 pages).
3. Executive Summary: A summary of the proposal (up to 200 words).
4. References: Contact information for two references who can comment on your ability to complete the proposed research. These individuals may be contacted by the Carr Center but do not need to submit documentation unless asked.
5. Writing Sample: Relevant sample (up to 10 pages).
6. List of Publications: A list of prior publications or comparable professional deliverables (with links or up to 3 attachments).

Application Deadline:

22 February, 2026

How to Apply:

Applications for the Carr Center Fellowship's 2026-2027 cohort are now open.
Apply here by February 22, 2026.

🔗 Additional Information

For more details, visit the official Harvard Kennedy School Carr-Ryan Center Fellowship page.

Academic & Professional Development

• Research & Writing: Dedicated time to pursue your own research projects and publications.
• Auditing Classes: Access to Harvard Kennedy School courses to broaden knowledge.
• Faculty & Expert Engagement: Opportunities to meet and collaborate with leading scholars and practitioners.
• Leading Study Groups: Chance to mentor and guide students, enhancing teaching and leadership skills.

Networking & Collaboration

• Community Access: Integration into the Harvard Kennedy School environment, fostering connections with faculty, fellows, and students.
• Exposure to Experts: Regular interaction with thought leaders in human rights, governance, and public policy.

Facilities & Resources

• Office Space (Limited): Occasional or shared office space in Cambridge/Boston for fellows who wish to be in residence.
• Learning Opportunities: Participation in seminars, workshops, and other academic events hosted by the Center.

Career Impact

• Prestige: Affiliation with Harvard Kennedy School enhances professional credibility.
• Platform for Influence: Fellows can contribute to shaping discourse on human rights and governance.
• Support for Sabbatical/Leadership Roles: Ideal for academics on sabbatical or leaders in organizations seeking a year of reflection and research.