Global China Fellows Program at Boston University – Fully Funded 

Since 2017, the program has supported over 40 pre- and post-doctoral fellows who engage with GCI research streams, collaborate with Boston University faculty, and connect with institutions in the Global South.

 Program Structure & Expectations

Fellows are paired with a faculty mentor or senior researcher and aligned with one of GCI’s four key research streams:

1. Data Analysis for Transparency and Accountability (D.A.T.A.)
2. Forestry, Agriculture, and Indigenous Rights (FAIR)
3. Energy & Climate
4. China & the International Financial Architecture (CHIFA)

During the fellowship year:

• Fellows devote ~20 hours/week to ongoing projects at GCI and another ~20 hours to their independent research.
• Each fellow is expected to produce one working paper over the appointment year.
• Throughout the year, fellows benefit from guidance, peer engagement, and potential networking and policy communication opportunities.

The fellowship is full time and typically carried out in person at Boston University, with a competitive stipend for research costs, travel, and professional development.

 Who Should Apply & Qualifications

Required qualifications:

• Pre-doctoral candidates should have completed qualifying exams (and defended their proposal).
• Postdoctoral candidates must have defended their dissertation by August 2026.
• A strong research interest in China’s overseas economic engagement with global institutions.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience or regional knowledge in Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, or similar.
• Proficiency in Chinese or languages relevant to countries of interest.
• Research in climate, sustainability, debt, global finance, development, mapping, or related topics.
• Strong quantitative or modeling skills.

The program accepts applicants from all disciplinary backgrounds (social science, natural science, engineering, business, etc.).

 Application & Important Dates

• Deadline for applications: December 19, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.
• Interview process: Screening may begin as early as October, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Required documents:

• Curriculum vitae / resume
• 1–2 page cover letter (academic background, research interest)
• 1–2 page working paper proposal (question, method, plan, significance)
• Contact information for two referees
• International applicants may need institutional approval (especially if on a visa), and BU’s International Students/Scholars Office (ISSO) may assist with immigration classification.

 Benefits & Impact

• Work closely with Boston University faculty and GCI researchers
• Receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and institutional support
• Engage in policy-relevant research bridging theory and practice
• Gain visibility in academic & policy communities
• Past fellows have progressed into prominent academic roles, leadership in development institutions, and think tanks globally