Wilson Center Research Fellowship 2027 in the USA | $120,000 Research Fellowship for Scholars and Policy Experts

Applications are now open for the Wilson Center Research Fellowship 2027, one of the world’s most prestigious research fellowships for scholars, policy practitioners, journalists, and public intellectuals. Hosted by the Wilson Center in Washington, D.C., the fellowship supports policy-relevant, nonpartisan research addressing major global challenges. Fellows conduct independent research while engaging with policymakers, congressional staff, and leading experts to help bridge the gap between scholarship and public policy.

The fellowship offers a 12-month appointment with a stipend of US$10,000 per month (totaling US$120,000), professional development opportunities, and participation in the Wilson Center’s global research community. Fellows work remotely during the fellowship while attending fully funded visits to Washington, D.C., at the beginning and end of the program.

Fellowship Overview

• Host Country: United States
• Host Organization: Wilson Center
• Program: Wilson Center Research Fellowship 2027–2028
• Program Type: Fully Funded Research Fellowship
• Duration: 12 Months
• Fellowship Period: June 2027 – May 2028
• Location: Remote with funded visits to Washington, D.C.
• Application Deadline: Check the official website for the next competition cycle. The 2026–2027 competition has closed.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

• US$10,000 monthly stipend
• Total funding of US$120,000
• Fully funded travel to Washington, D.C. at the beginning and end of the fellowship
• Opportunities to engage with policymakers, members of Congress, and government agencies
• Access to the Wilson Center’s research resources and professional network
• Editorial support for policy publications
• Opportunities to present research through seminars, workshops, and public events
• Membership in a distinguished international community of scholars and practitioners.

Research Areas

The Wilson Center welcomes policy-relevant proposals related to:

• Strategic Competition
• Economic Statecraft
• Technology and Innovation
• Regional Studies
• International Relations
• Security and Defense
• Democracy and Governance
• Climate and Energy Policy
• Global Economic Development
• Foreign Policy and International Affairs

Research proposals should address significant global policy challenges while remaining nonpartisan.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should be:

• Scholars
• Policy practitioners
• Journalists
• Public intellectuals

Academic applicants are generally expected to hold a PhD or JD, while non-academic applicants should demonstrate an equivalent level of professional achievement. Applicants must submit a strong, policy-relevant research proposal aligned with the Wilson Center’s mission.

Required Application Documents

Applicants typically need to submit:

• Completed online application form
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum three pages)
• Research proposal (maximum five pages)
• Statement describing contributions to the Wilson Center community (maximum 200 words)
• Two letters of recommendation

All application materials must be submitted in English.

Fellowship Activities

During the fellowship, participants will:

• Conduct independent research.
• Produce a major research manuscript or book project.
• Publish policy briefs, reports, and opinion pieces.
• Participate in seminars and workshops.
• Engage with U.S. policymakers and congressional staff.
• Collaborate with fellow researchers across disciplines.

Why Apply?

The Wilson Center Research Fellowship provides participants with the opportunity to:

• Receive US$120,000 in fellowship funding.
• Conduct independent research with institutional support.
• Influence public policy through evidence-based research.
• Build an international professional network.
• Collaborate with leading scholars and practitioners.
• Enhance academic and policy careers through one of the world’s leading think tanks.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official Wilson Center Research Fellowship webpage.
2. Review the eligibility requirements and application guidelines.
3. Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Submit all required materials before the official application deadline for the relevant fellowship cycle.

The Wilson Center Research Fellowship is among the most prestigious research fellowships available for scholars and policy professionals worldwide. Offering US$120,000 in funding, access to influential policymakers, and a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment, the fellowship enables participants to produce impactful work on today’s most pressing global issues. Researchers with innovative, policy-oriented projects in international affairs, technology, governance, economics, and regional studies are strongly encouraged to monitor the next application cycle and apply when it opens.