Call for
Harvard Environmental Fellows Program 2026

Application Deadline:
1 December 2025
About Organisation
The Harvard University Center for the Environment (HUCE), now part of the Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, is dedicated to fostering innovative research and leadership in environmental studies. The Center serves as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, uniting faculty, scholars, and students across Harvard’s schools and departments to address some of the world’s most urgent environmental issues. By drawing on Harvard’s vast intellectual resources, HUCE provides a platform where diverse fields—ranging from science, law, and design to public health and the humanities—intersect to tackle climate and sustainability challenges. The Center emphasizes cultivating future leaders who can bridge disciplinary boundaries and generate actionable solutions for global environmental concerns. One of HUCE’s flagship initiatives is the Environmental Fellows Program, which exemplifies its mission by supporting talented early-career scholars. Fellows benefit from mentorship by leading faculty, academic resources, and a strong interdisciplinary community that enhances their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the field. Through initiatives like these, HUCE not only advances academic excellence but also nurtures a generation of scholars committed to translating research into practical impact. The Center thus plays a vital role in linking knowledge with action to create pathways toward a more sustainable future.
About the Grant
The Environmental Fellows Program at Harvard University is a prestigious initiative designed to support recent doctoral graduates who are passionate about advancing solutions to pressing environmental challenges. Managed by the Harvard University Center for the Environment, the program provides an unparalleled opportunity for fellows to engage in innovative, interdisciplinary research in collaboration with Harvard faculty. Each year, around five fellows are selected to join a diverse cohort that brings together expertise from multiple disciplines. Fellows are expected to pursue projects that are independent of their doctoral work, ensuring fresh contributions to the field. Over the course of two years, fellows work closely with a faculty host who provides mentorship, office space, and academic guidance. In addition to research, fellows participate in a structured co-curricular program, including biweekly dinners with Harvard faculty and distinguished speakers, fostering intellectual exchange and professional growth. The program embodies Harvard’s commitment to cultivating environmental leadership and scholarly excellence by creating meaningful connections across its schools and departments. With its competitive support package, professional development opportunities, and emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, the Environmental Fellows Program is a unique platform for emerging scholars seeking to make a lasting impact on environmental research and policy.
Who can Apply?
The Environmental Fellows Program is open to outstanding early-career scholars from across the globe who have recently earned or are completing their doctoral or equivalent terminal degree. Eligible candidates must have been awarded their degree between May 2022 and August 2026. Applicants from all academic backgrounds—including sciences, public health, law, design, humanities, and other related fields—are encouraged to apply, reflecting the program’s interdisciplinary ethos. Selection is based on academic achievement, research potential, and the originality of the proposed project. Proposals must clearly demonstrate independence from prior doctoral research and show strong relevance to pressing environmental challenges. For applicants who have studied or are currently based at Harvard, it is crucial that their proposed work significantly differs from past projects and involves mentorship with a new faculty host. A key eligibility requirement is securing a Harvard faculty member as a host, who will act as a mentor and provide academic and administrative support. Faculty hosts must submit a formal letter of support as part of the application. Notably, a few faculty members are ineligible to host fellows for the 2026 cohort. The program aims to select a diverse cohort of fellows representing a wide range of disciplines and perspectives.
How to Apply?
Applicants must develop a research proposal, identify and secure a Harvard faculty host, and request a two-page support letter from the host. The completed application, including academic materials and the host’s letter, must be submitted by the deadline. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview with the selection committee. Early outreach to prospective faculty hosts is strongly encouraged, as some departments follow internal deadlines.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2026 Environmental Fellows Program is December 1, 2025. All required materials, including the faculty host’s support letter, must be submitted by this date for consideration.
Last Date to Apply
The final date to submit applications for the 2026 cohort is December 1, 2025. Applicants should initiate discussions with potential faculty hosts well in advance to ensure timely completion.
Grant Amount
Selected fellows will receive $90,000 annually, health insurance eligibility, up to $2,500 for relocation, and an additional $2,500 per year for travel and professional development expenses.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.