Apply for Visiting Scholar Fellowship Program (Kuwait)

The Kuwait Program Visiting Scholar Fellowship, hosted by the Middle East Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School, invites senior policy-oriented scholars from Kuwait to engage in research or study groups that address key public policy areas relevant to Kuwait and the Gulf region. This opportunity offers a substantial stipend, travel support, and access to prestigious resources. Applications for the 2027-2028 academic year open on 1 October 2026 and close on 1 December 2026. This fellowship aims to support the development of evidence-based solutions to public policy challenges in Kuwait and the Gulf region. Scholars will either lead a study group for Harvard students or conduct an independent research project, contributing to the Kuwait Program’s mission of fostering scientific approaches to policy-making. Fellows receive a monthly stipend of $10,000, along with travel support. They also gain access to Harvard’s extensive library resources and the opportunity to collaborate with Harvard faculty, enhancing their research projects. Eligible candidates must be senior policy-oriented scholars or faculty members from Kuwait. Applicants must either reside in Kuwait or hold a formal affiliation with a Kuwait-based academic or research institution. Applicants should focus on key policy areas, including: This fellowship is designed to empower scholars who can contribute significantly to public policy discourse and development in Kuwait and the Gulf region. By leveraging Harvard’s resources and expertise, fellows can produce impactful research and teaching outcomes. Is the fellowship open to non-Kuwaiti scholars? No, only scholars residing in or affiliated with institutions in Kuwait are eligible. What is the duration of the fellowship? The fellowship lasts for one semester or one academic year, depending on the scholar’s availability. What should the research project proposal include? Include key questions, a timeline, potential collaborations, and funding sources. Are there any specific requirements for the writing sample? The sample must be under 50 pages, preferably single-authored, and include a 300-word abstract. Who funds the Kuwait Program? The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) funds the program. Interested scholars should review the official guidelines and prepare their applications by the stated deadlines. For further information, contact Laura Boehm, MEI Program Coordinator for Fellowships and Research Administration.