Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center: Harvard University’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society (BKC) is now accepting applications for its 2025–2026 Fellowship Program, inviting brilliant minds from around the world to take part in pioneering digital research. Whether you’re a scholar, a recent PhD graduate, or a seasoned industry professional, this is a rare opportunity to collaborate with thought leaders at one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions.
This immersive fellowship offers a year-long residency at Harvard Law School’s campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where fellows will engage in independent research and team-based projects tackling pressing challenges in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), social media, digital rights, and more.
Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Duration | September 1, 2025 – August 31, 2026 |
| Location | In-residence at Harvard Law School, Cambridge, MA |
| Eligibility | Academics, Post-Doctoral Scholars, Non-Academic Professionals |
| Stipend | Up to $75,000 (or $10,000 supplement for externally funded fellows) |
| Deadline to Apply | April 30, 2025, 11:59 PM ET |
| Official Website | cyber.harvard.edu |
If you’re passionate about shaping the future of the internet and digital life, the Berkman Klein Center Fellowship 2025–2026 could be the career-defining experience you’ve been waiting for. With world-class mentorship, intellectual freedom, and a vibrant community at your side, this is your chance to make a mark on how technology serves society.
Submit your application before April 30, 2025, and join the conversation that will shape tomorrow.
What Is the Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center Fellowship?
The Berkman Klein Center Fellowship is a non-degree, academic program that welcomes a diverse cohort of thinkers—ranging from law professors to tech innovators—who are passionate about improving digital life. Fellows contribute to key BKC workstreams, focusing on issues like AI ethics, misinformation, cybersecurity, privacy, and more.
This program stands out not just for its prestigious host, but also for its commitment to cross-disciplinary collaboration. You don’t have to be from a tech background to apply. The goal is to foster inclusive dialogue around how technology impacts society.
Who Can Apply: Three Fellowship Tracks Explained
BKC offers three unique fellowship tracks, each tailored to a different stage of professional or academic life:
1. Academic Fellowship
- Open to full-time faculty members (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professors).
- Applicants should have a scholarly focus on AI, social media, or digital communication.
- Strong preference is given to candidates with a proven record of public and academic contributions.
2. Post-Doctoral Fellowship
- For those who have completed their PhD or other terminal degree recently, or will do so by September 2025.
- Applicants must not be enrolled in any degree program during the fellowship year.
- Ideal for early-career researchers with emerging publications in digital research fields.
3. Non-Academic Fellowship
- Designed for professionals from outside traditional academia.
- Applicants should bring real-world experience, thought leadership, or a publication portfolio related to digital society themes.
- Perfect for journalists, engineers, policymakers, activists, and legal experts.
Time Commitment & Residency
- Mandatory residency is required in Cambridge, MA, from September 2025 through May 2026.
- Fellows work out of the BKC’s office at Harvard Law School.
- Expect full-time engagement with independent research, collaborative workstreams, and frequent interaction with the broader Harvard community.
This is not a remote program. The goal is to build strong, in-person networks that lead to transformative collaboration.
Stipends and Financial Support
BKC offers financial flexibility depending on your current employment or funding status:
- Up to $75,000 stipend for fellows without external funding.
- $10,000 supplement for those on paid sabbaticals or with outside financial support.
- All stipend arrangements are customized and discussed during the selection and interview stages.
How to Apply For Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center Fellowship
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include academic or professional experience, publications, and prior work.
- Cover Letter (1–2 pages): Mention your interest in a specific BKC workstream, your background, and why you’re applying.
- Project Proposal (2–3 pages): Outline your proposed research or initiative and how it aligns with BKC’s mission.
- Work Samples (1–3): Share publications, reports, media, or other materials that demonstrate your expertise.
Submit your complete application through the official BKC Fellowship portal.
Why This Fellowship Matters
In a world increasingly shaped by digital platforms, ethical, inclusive, and forward-thinking research is more important than ever. The Berkman Klein Center has long been a trailblazer in internet policy and technology governance, with its fellows going on to influence government, academia, tech firms, and global NGOs.
By joining this fellowship, you don’t just get access to Harvard—you gain a platform to create real-world impact.
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FAQs on Harvard’s Berkman Klein Center
Q1. Is the fellowship open to international applicants?
Yes. BKC welcomes applications from around the globe. Selected fellows will need to obtain the appropriate visa to reside in the U.S. during the program.
Q2. Can I work another job during the fellowship?
No. Fellows are expected to fully commit to the program. It is considered a full-time, immersive experience.
Q3. What kind of projects are accepted?
Projects can range from academic papers to policy frameworks or digital tools. The key is alignment with BKC’s workstreams and real-world relevance.
Q4. Is housing provided?
No, housing is not provided, but BKC staff may assist fellows in finding suitable accommodations in Cambridge.
Q5. What is a “workstream” at BKC?
Workstreams are core thematic focus areas like AI & Ethics, Youth & Media, Digital Governance, etc. You’ll find details on these on the BKC website.
