OVERVIEW The Weatherhead Scholars Program Practitioner Fellowship in International Affairs at Harvard University is a one-year residential fellowship hosted by the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The fellowship is designed for accomplished professionals working on international, comparative, transnational, or global issues. Practitioner fellows join a multidisciplinary cohort that includes postdoctoral researchers and visiting faculty and participate in seminars, workshops, and collaborative programming throughout the academic year. The fellowship runs during the 2027–2028 academic year, with fellows expected to be on campus from late August through mid-May. The program supports independent research and engagement with academic and policy communities focused on global challenges. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES – Participate actively in the Weatherhead Scholars Program throughout the academic year – Be in residence on campus from late August through mid-May – Engage in weekly seminars and professional development workshops – Contribute to collaborative programming across the Weatherhead Center – Pursue an independent research or policy-related project aligned with the Weatherhead Center’s mission – Participate in the broader intellectual community at Harvard and the Weatherhead Center – Engage with multidisciplinary cohorts that include postdoctoral researchers and visiting faculty REQUIREMENTS – Hold at least a bachelor’s degree – Demonstrate a strong interest in international affairs – Show a track record of professional impact – Demonstrate interest in engaging with academic and policy communities – Submit a project proposal aligned with the Weatherhead Center’s mission – Commit to active participation in the fellowship program – Provide 2 to 3 references – Submit required application materials including a curriculum vitae, cover letter, and statement of research – Complete research interest and project summary application questions WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS This fellowship creates a space where experienced practitioners and scholars can exchange ideas on major international and transnational issues. By bringing together professionals from fields such as diplomacy, journalism, civil society, government, and academia, the program encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and research connected to real-world policy challenges. The Weatherhead Center focuses on issues including governance, migration, inequality, international development, environmental change, conflict, and global cooperation. Fellows contribute to conversations that support research, public dialogue, and collaboration across international affairs and policy communities. BONUS: APPLICATION ADVICE – Develop a clear project proposal that directly connects to international, comparative, transnational, or global issues addressed by the Weatherhead Center – Highlight measurable professional accomplishments and examples of impact in policy, research, leadership, or public engagement – Use the cover letter to explain how your background will contribute to the fellowship’s multidisciplinary community – Request recommendation letters early so referees have enough time to submit materials before the deadline – Demonstrate readiness for active residential participation by discussing collaboration, seminars, or public engagement experience – Review the program’s frequently asked questions and application instructions carefully before submission