The Harvard Environmental Fellowship 2026 is designed to help recent doctorate graduates conduct research on important environmental issues. Fellows will work with Harvard faculty and use the university’s resources to explore new ideas and solutions.
About the Fellowship
This fellowship allows scholars to work for two years with Harvard faculty in any department. Fellows become part of a research community, meet other scholars, and expand their professional network.
Host Country
United States of America
Host University
Harvard University, Center for the Environment
Fellowship Type
Fully Funded Residential Fellowship
Degree
Doctorate or equivalent terminal degree
Eligibility Criteria
Must have received a terminal degree between May 2022 and August 2026.
Candidates with a PhD or equivalent in any field are eligible.
Applicants without a PhD may apply if their field does not typically require one.
Harvard post-docs and graduates can apply if their research takes a new direction.
Must secure a Harvard faculty mentor to host the research.
Must commit to residency in Cambridge for the two-year fellowship.
Fields of Study
Open to all disciplines, including:
Environmental Science
Climate Change
Ecology & Biodiversity
Public Policy
Business, Law, and Economics
Social Sciences
Humanities and Arts
Health and Medicine
Engineering and Design
Fellowship Benefits
Annual salary of $90,000
Health insurance eligibility
Up to $2,500 for relocation
$2,500 annual allowance for travel and professional expenses
Access to Harvard resources and co-curricular programs
Required Documents
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Detailed Research Proposal (max 5 pages)
Up to 3 publications or writing samples
Three letters of reference (including dissertation advisor)
Host support letter from Harvard faculty (max 2 pages)
Application Process
Complete the online application form by December 1, 2025, 5 p.m. EST.
Upload CV, research proposal, and publication samples as PDFs.
Ensure three reference letters are submitted.
Submit a letter of support from the Harvard faculty host.
Selected candidates may have an interview over video with the selection committee.
Registration Deadlines
Task
Deadline
Online Application Submission
December 1, 2025
Reference Letters & Host Letter
December 10, 2025
Selection Process
Evaluation based on prior academic success and potential contribution.
Project proposals must represent an independent line of inquiry.
Host faculty support is critical.
Final selection includes review by a committee and possible interviews.
Approximately 5 fellows will be selected for the 2026 cohort.
Tips to Succeed
Start early to find a Harvard faculty host.
Ensure your project is distinct from your PhD research.
Demonstrate clear relevance to environmental challenges.
Prepare strong letters of recommendation.
Highlight interdisciplinary potential if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question
Answer
Who can apply?
Recent doctorate recipients (May 2022 – Aug 2026) from any field.
Can non-Harvard graduates apply?
Yes, all universities worldwide are eligible.
Are international candidates eligible?
Yes, but English proficiency is required.
Is a PhD required?
Generally yes, but some fields may allow equivalent degrees.
How many fellows are selected?
About 5 fellows for 2026.
What is included in the fellowship?
Salary, health insurance, travel and relocation support.
Is residency required?
Yes, fellows must live in Cambridge for two years.
Can Harvard post-docs apply?
Yes, if research takes a new direction.
Why Choose This Fellowship
The Harvard Environmental Fellowship provides unmatched access to faculty, resources, and a network of interdisciplinary researchers. Fellows gain hands-on experience tackling global environmental issues while advancing their careers.
Career and Future Opportunities
Fellows can expand their research portfolio, collaborate with leading experts, and open doors to academic, government, or private sector opportunities worldwide.
Student Experiences
Previous fellows report significant growth in research skills, networking, and interdisciplinary understanding. They benefit from mentoring and participation in biweekly Harvard faculty dinners.
Contact Information
Jim Clem Harvard University Center for the Environment 26 Oxford Street, 4th Floor Cambridge, MA 02138 Email: environmental_fellows@harvard.edu
Conclusion
The Harvard Environmental Fellowship 2026 is a unique opportunity for early-career scholars to conduct high-impact research on pressing environmental challenges while gaining professional growth and interdisciplinary experience.
