- Residency at Harvard UniversityLocation
- ~1 semester or 1 academic yearDuration
- Support for research and living expensesFinancial Support
- Focus on urban problem-solving and leadershipResearch Focus
- Applications open September 16, 2026Application Start
- Deadline October 28, 2026Application Deadline
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All countries
Country
Harvard University
Provider
The Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program offers a research residency at Harvard University, hosted by the Bloomberg Center for Cities. Established to enhance the capacity of city leaders, the Center supports researchers whose work advances urban problem-solving, city leadership, innovation, and evidence-based governance. Scholars are appointed for either one semester or a full academic year, focusing on policy-relevant research while engaging with Harvard’s academic community. This initiative aims to cultivate a global network of scholars whose research contributes to both academic knowledge and practical solutions for urban challenges worldwide. The program provides a dedicated environment for scholars to pursue their specific research projects, proposed during the application process, and to interact with faculty, students, and practitioners across Harvard University. The program was announced for the 2027 cohort with applications opening on September 16, 2026. The Bloomberg Center for Cities, the host of this program, plays a crucial role in improving the effectiveness of local governments and advancing innovative approaches to city management. Through its various activities, it strives to deliver meaningful results for urban residents. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Residency at Harvard University — Dedicated time and space for research activities on campus.
- Housing support — Assistance with accommodation located near Harvard University during the residency period.
- Financial support — Funding to facilitate dedicated research time, which may include support for course buyouts or other arrangements to step away from regular academic obligations. The amount is expected to be ~USD 2,000-5,000 per month (est.).
- Engagement opportunities — Access to Harvard faculty, students, and researchers, fostering collaboration and intellectual exchange.
- Visa sponsorship — Potential visa sponsorship for international scholars, subject to Harvard University's institutional policies and individual circumstances.
- Networking — Participation in a growing network of scholars focused on urban problem-solving.
How to apply
Prospective Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars must complete an official application and submit a comprehensive research proposal through the Bloomberg Center for Cities' application portal. It is recommended to start preparing the proposal well in advance of the deadline.
- Visit the Official Website — Navigate to the Bloomberg Center for Cities application portal via the official website link provided.
- Complete the Official Application — Fill out all required sections of the application form accurately and completely.
- Prepare Research Proposal — Develop a detailed research proposal explaining the urban challenge addressed, research questions, theoretical framework, methodology, anticipated contributions, expected outputs, and potential impact.
- Submit Application and Proposal — Upload your completed application and research proposal through the online portal by the stated deadline.
- Attend Interview (if invited) — Be prepared to participate in an interview with members of the selection committee if shortlisted.
Eligibility
Academic StandingResearchers at different career stages, with no formal academic rank requirements.
Research AlignmentWork must advance urban problem-solving, city leadership, innovation, and evidence-based governance, with clear relevance to city leadership and urban governance.
Research ProposalApplicants must submit a detailed research proposal outlining their intended project.
ContributionScholars are expected to contribute to the intellectual life of the Bloomberg Center for Cities through seminars, study groups, office hours, and public events.
The program emphasizes the relevance of research to practical urban problem-solving and public service delivery.
Eligible countries
All countries
Deadlines
2027 Cohort2026-10-28
Selection
Applications are assessed based on the clarity and significance of the research problem, the quality and rigor of the research design, and the potential contribution to both academic scholarship and practical urban problem-solving. Alignment with the mission and priorities of the Bloomberg Center for Cities is crucial. The selection committee seeks candidates whose work demonstrates scholarly excellence and practical relevance to city leadership.
Verified sources
- Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Programcities.harvard.eduofficial
- Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program 2027: Research Residency at Harvard Universityglobalsouthopportunities.comannouncement
About the provider
The Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University was established to strengthen the capacity of city leaders to solve complex urban challenges and deliver meaningful results for residents. Through research, training, and collaboration, the Center works to improve local government effectiveness.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program?
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It is a research residency program at Harvard University, hosted by the Bloomberg Center for Cities, supporting scholars whose work addresses urban problem-solving and city leadership.
What does the scholarship cover?
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The program covers a residency at Harvard, housing support, financial support for research time, opportunities for engagement with Harvard's community, and potential visa sponsorship.
What is the value of the award?
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The program provides financial support to facilitate dedicated research time, which may include funding for course buyouts or other arrangements. Specific amounts are not listed, but are estimated to be ~USD 2,000-5,000 per month.
Who is eligible to apply?
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Researchers at all career stages and from diverse disciplinary backgrounds are eligible, provided their work aligns with the program's focus on urban governance and leadership. There are no formal academic rank requirements.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
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Applicants from all countries are eligible, as the program aims to build a global community of scholars addressing urban challenges worldwide.
Which study levels are eligible for this program?
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This program supports researchers undertaking post-doctoral or advanced-level research. It is not tied to specific degree levels like bachelors, masters, or PhD, but rather to a researcher's career stage and project.
What is the application deadline for the next cycle?
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The application deadline for the 2027 cohort is October 28, 2026.
How do I apply for this program?
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Interested researchers must complete the official application and submit a detailed research proposal through the Bloomberg Center for Cities' application portal on their official website.
What documents are required for the application?
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The primary required document is a detailed research proposal. Applicants may also need to submit an official application form, CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation (est.).
How are scholars selected?
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Selection is based on the clarity and significance of the research problem, rigor of research design, potential academic and practical contributions, and alignment with the Center's mission and priorities.
What is the duration of the residency and is it renewable?
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The residency can be for one semester or a full academic year. The page does not mention renewability, so scholars should assume it is a one-time residency.
Where can I confirm the latest details about the program?
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You should confirm all current-cycle details, including specific dates, requirements, and benefits, on the official website of the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University.