Berenson Fellowship 2027–2028 (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the Berenson Fellowship 2027–2028. Funded by The Lila Wallace–Reader's Digest Fund, the fellowship supports scholars whose research explores "Italy in the World" by examining the transnational connections between Italy and other regions during the Renaissance, broadly defined as the period from the 14th to the 17th century.

Hosted by Villa I Tatti, Harvard University's Center for Italian Renaissance Studies in Florence, the fellowship provides scholars with dedicated time, financial support, and access to world-class research resources to advance significant research projects. Up to four Berenson Fellowships are awarded each year.

About the Fellowship

Named after renowned art historian Bernard Berenson, the fellowship encourages innovative research that examines the Renaissance through a global lens rather than a purely European perspective. Applicants are expected to investigate historical exchanges between Italy and regions such as Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean, Latin America, and other parts of the world.

Fellows become part of the vibrant scholarly community at Villa I Tatti, participating in lectures, conferences, concerts, and academic discussions while enjoying uninterrupted time to focus on their research.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Monthly stipend of USD 5,200.
• One-time relocation allowance of up to USD 1,800.
• Residential fellowship lasting either four or six months.
• Rent-free accommodation when available (utilities excluded).
• Housing subsidy if on-site accommodation is unavailable.
• Full access to the Biblioteca Berenson and other Harvard research resources.
• Dedicated workspace within the library.
• Opportunities to participate in seminars, lectures, conferences, and concerts.
• Membership in an international community of Renaissance scholars.

Research Areas

Applicants may conduct research in disciplines supported by Villa I Tatti, including:

• Art history.
• Architecture.
• History.
• Philosophy.
• Literature.
• Music.
• History of science.
• Renaissance studies.
• Interdisciplinary studies exploring Italy's relationships with Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean, Latin America, and other world regions during the Renaissance.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Hold a PhD at the time of application.
• Not be enrolled in a second PhD programme.
• Propose an original research project related to "Italy in the World."
• Conduct the fellowship exclusively on the proposed project.
• Be proficient in English.
• Have familiarity with Italian.
• Be able to conduct the majority of their research in Florence.

Priority is given to early- and mid-career scholars. Scholars from all nationalities are encouraged to apply, with special consideration for applicants who do not have regular access to research facilities in Italy.

Fellowship Requirements

Selected fellows are expected to:

• Live in the Florence area throughout the fellowship.
• Spend at least three days each week at Villa I Tatti.
• Participate actively in the academic life of the Center.
• Attend designated lectures, conferences, and scholarly events.

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed online application form.
• Research proposal.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• PhD certificate.
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Any additional documents requested through the application portal.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Originality and scholarly quality of the proposed research.
• Relevance to the fellowship theme, "Italy in the World."
• Academic achievements.
• Feasibility of completing the project during the fellowship.
• Potential contribution to Renaissance scholarship.

How to Apply

To apply:

1. Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents.
2. Complete the online application through the Villa I Tatti fellowship portal.
3. Arrange for two referees to submit recommendation letters.
4. Submit your application before the deadline.

Applications may be submitted in either English or Italian. Applicants may apply for only one type of Villa I Tatti fellowship during each academic year.