Deadline: 16-Jan-2026
The Houghton Library Visiting Fellowship Program is inviting applications for scholars at all stages of their careers to pursue projects that require in-depth research on Houghton Library’s holdings, draw on staff expertise, and participate in intellectual life at Harvard.
Houghton Library offers fellows access to Harvard’s libraries and platforms to share their research through publications and programs.
The library encourages research that reexamines its holdings through a global perspective and engages with contemporary social, political, and cultural issues, reflecting its growing commitment to inclusivity through new fellowships on gender, sexuality, and early modern Black lives.
Fellows are expected to be in residence at Houghton Library for four weeks within their fellowship year, running from July through June. They must finalize their visit dates before arrival as reading room seating is limited, and their preferred dates cannot be guaranteed.
Each fellow will receive a stipend of $4,500 for the duration of their appointment and is responsible for arranging their own travel, accommodation, and taxes.
Eligibility for the fellowship extends to doctoral students, post-doctoral researchers, academics, independent scholars, curators, and professionals from libraries, archives, or museums worldwide.
Non-U.S. citizens must secure a J-1 visa to participate, which Harvard University can sponsor. However, fellows are responsible for the associated fees and will receive their stipend 2–3 weeks after arrival.
The fellowship is not typically granted to those living within commuting distance of the library, and a five-year interval is required before reapplying after a successful award.
Candidates must submit a 500-word project proposal, a preliminary list of Houghton collection materials, a curriculum vitae, and one letter of reference. Applications without specific references to Houghton’s holdings will not be considered.
The selection committee will determine the most suitable fellowship for each awardee, so applicants need not apply for specific ones. Applications are due by January 16, 2026.
For more information, visit Harvard Library.