Applications open for Research Fellowship Program in Kuwait

The Kuwait Program Research Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for junior and mid-career scholars from Kuwait to engage in policy-relevant research at Harvard University. This fellowship is part of the Kuwait Program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). Applications for the 2027-2028 academic year open on 1 October 2026 and close on 1 December 2026. The fellowship aims to support policy-oriented research with a focus on critical public policy areas relevant to Kuwait and the Gulf region. Scholars will have access to Harvard’s resources and are expected to contribute to peer-reviewed, internationally-ranked Open Access journals. The fellowship encourages collaboration with Harvard faculty and participation in the Middle East Initiative’s public activities. Supported research should align with the following themes, focusing on their relevance to Kuwait and the Gulf region: This fellowship offers a unique platform for Kuwaiti scholars to advance their research and engage with global academic communities. By fostering scholarly exchange and collaboration at Harvard, the program aims to enhance policy-making in Kuwait and the broader Gulf region. What is the stipend amount? The stipend ranges from $65,000 to $75,000, depending on the fellow’s academic experience. Who can apply for this fellowship? The fellowship is open to junior and mid-career scholars from Kuwait or those affiliated with Kuwaiti institutions. What are the key research areas? Research should focus on health, education, energy, environment, water and food security, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence. When is the application deadline? Applications close on 1 December 2026, with letters of recommendation due by 15 December 2026. Do I need to be at Harvard for the fellowship? Yes, fellows are required to be present at Harvard University throughout the fellowship duration. Eligible scholars are encouraged to review the official guidelines and prepare their applications carefully. Ensure all components are complete and submitted by the deadline to take advantage of this valuable opportunity to further your research at Harvard University. For more information, visit Middle East Initiative.