Introduction #
Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society invites applications for its prestigious 2025-2026 Fellowship Program. This program offers fellows the opportunity to conduct independent research, engage with Harvard faculty, and contribute to ongoing projects in key areas of technology, law, and society.
The fellowship is open to academics, post-doctoral scholars, and accomplished professionals. Selected fellows will be based in Cambridge, MA, and work collaboratively with faculty, students, and experts on specific research workstreams.
Fellowship Tracks
Applicants can apply under one of the following three categories:
- Academic Fellowship – For full-time faculty members.
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship – For individuals who have recently earned a PhD or equivalent degree.
- Non-Academic Fellowship – For professionals and experts from industries outside of academia.
Fellowship Workstreams for 2025-2026 #
Fellows will be embedded in one of the six specialized workstreams focusing on critical and emerging issues. Applicants must select a workstream while applying:
- AI Interpretability, Ethics, and Implications
- AI Ethics with the Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation
- Agentic AI Protocols and Risk Mitigations
- Artificial General Intelligence Futurecasting and Policy Development
- Tech, Tools, and Practices for Improving University Discourse
- Safety Solutions for Social Media
The final project selection will be a collaborative effort among the fellows and BKC faculty.
Eligibility Criteria #
To apply for the BKC Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Fellows: Must be full-time faculty at an accredited institution.
- Post-Doctoral Fellows: Must have completed a doctoral degree by September 2025.
- Non-Academic Fellows: Must be established professionals with a strong background in AI, social media, technology, or related fields.
- Residency Requirement: Fellows must reside in Cambridge, MA, from September 2025 to May 2026.
- Visa Eligibility: International applicants requiring a visa must comply with Harvard’s visa regulations.
Stipend and Financial Support #
BKC provides limited financial support to selected fellows based on their funding needs:
- Fellowship Funding: Up to $75,000 annually for fellows on unpaid leave or without external funding.
- Externally Funded Fellows: Those with external funding receive an additional $10,000 stipend from BKC.
- Tax & Immigration Considerations: Stipends may be subject to taxation, and visa holders must confirm stipend eligibility.
Benefits & Resources #
Fellows gain access to numerous Harvard University resources, including:
- Office Space: Shared workspace at BKC, Harvard Law School.
- Library Access: Full access to Harvard’s library system.
- Health Insurance: Eligible fellows may purchase Harvard’s health insurance.
- Networking: Opportunities to collaborate with scholars, policymakers, and industry experts.
- Teaching Opportunities: Fellows may explore teaching roles at Harvard (subject to approval).
How to Apply #
Application Deadline:
The application process closes on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time).
Required Documents:
Applicants must submit the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter (1-2 pages): Indicate your preferred workstream and relevant experience.
- Project Proposal (2-3 pages): Outline past research or propose a new project.
- Work Samples (1-3 pieces)
- References: If shortlisted, applicants will be required to provide two reference letters.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the official application portal.
- Select your preferred fellowship track and workstream.
- Upload the required documents.
- Specify your funding needs and residency commitment.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Selection Process & Interview #
After submission, shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview. The interview will focus on:
- Research interests and alignment with BKC’s mission.
- Collaboration potential within the chosen workstream.
- Availability and funding considerations.
Final decisions will be communicated before September 2025.
Final Thoughts #
The Berkman Klein Center Fellowship provides a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research, interact with global experts, and contribute to the digital transformation landscape. If you are passionate about AI, social media, and internet governance, apply now and become part of this prestigious program.
📌 Apply Here before April 30, 2025.
