The Harvard Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society (BKC) invites exceptional scholars, professionals, innovators, and creatives to join its renowned fellowship program. This fellowship supports individuals who are committed to conducting independent, impactful research at the intersection of technology, policy, society, and human behavior. Designed for both technical and non-technical experts, the program cultivates a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives shape the understanding and advancement of digital society.
Overview of the Fellowship
The fellowship typically runs for 8 to 12 months, depending on which cohort applicants choose. Selected fellows become part of an intellectually vibrant community housed within Harvard University. The center strongly encourages fellows to take part in its on-campus activities in Cambridge, Massachusetts, though remote participation may be considered in specific cases. Fellows are expected to devote a major portion of their time to their research and community involvement, reducing outside professional obligations during the fellowship period.
Program Duration Options
Applicants may choose between two fellowship terms. The first runs from January to August 2026, offering an eight-month research period. The second option spans the full academic year from September 2026 to August 2027, providing a comprehensive twelve-month engagement. Fellows may apply for one or both terms depending on their availability and project needs.
Funding and Support
The fellowship offers robust support for selected candidates. Fully funded fellows may receive a stipend of up to $75,000 for a twelve-month appointment, prorated for shorter fellowship periods. This funding enables fellows to focus on research without financial constraints. Cambridge-based fellows gain access to a shared workspace at Harvard, as well as full use of the university’s extensive library system, academic resources, events, and research infrastructure.
Beyond financial and logistical support, fellows join an active, interdisciplinary community. They engage in workshops, study groups, seminars, and collaborative projects with faculty, staff, students, and other fellows. This community-oriented environment encourages deep exploration of research ideas while fostering long-term professional relationships.
Who Should Apply
The fellowship is intentionally interdisciplinary and attracts individuals from fields such as computer science, law, public policy, data ethics, social sciences, the humanities, journalism, the arts, and more. Technical applicants such as computer scientists and AI researchers are encouraged to demonstrate experience with machine learning frameworks, research methodologies, or advanced computational tools. While a PhD is advantageous for technical applicants, equivalent experience in industry or research also qualifies.
Non-technical applicants, such as social scientists, human rights advocates, policy professionals, and creative practitioners, should demonstrate relevant expertise and the ability to conceptualize a meaningful research project. The program is open to applicants worldwide, and assistance with visa arrangements may be provided when necessary.
Research Expectations
Fellows are encouraged to propose innovative, independent research projects aligned with the center’s mission. Deliverables may include academic papers, policy analyses, technical prototypes, datasets, public-facing articles, workshops, or creative work. The program values research that advances understanding of how digital technologies influence society and how policy, law, and design can shape better digital futures.
Application Materials
Applicants must submit a thoughtful and well-organized application package. This includes a curriculum vitae, a cover letter describing motivations and goals, and a detailed research proposal outlining the project’s purpose, methodology, timeline, and anticipated impact. Candidates must also provide one to three work samples in a single file and supply contact details for two professional references. These references may be contacted during the final selection process.
Selection Timeline
Applicants must complete all application requirements by the specified deadline. Shortlisted candidates may undergo additional reference checks or provide supplementary information. Successful applicants will be notified once selections are finalized and will prepare to join the BKC research community for the upcoming cohort.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 5, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
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Apply here: https://cyber.harvard.edu/apply/jobs/47
