Initiative on History and Public Policy Postdoctoral Fellowship

The Initiative on History and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School, based at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, will award one post-doctoral fellowship for the 2017-18 academic year.

We seek to attract an outstanding junior scholar who is engaged in cutting-edge historical research that is informed by, or seeks to influence, contemporary public policy. In addition to carrying out his or her own research and writing, the fellow is expected to interact with students and faculty, contribute to the intellectual life of the Ash Center and the Harvard Kennedy School, and participate in the collective activities and development of the Initiative on History and Public Policy. These activities may include hosting seminars, inviting speakers, and planning a conference.

The fellowship begins in September with a term of one year, with the possibility of a renewal for a second year.

Preference will be given to a recent recipient of a doctoral degree. Harvard University is an equal opportunity institution, and we strongly encourage applications from women and minority candidates.

Benefits

The fellowship will provide office space and access to many of Harvard's facilities. The fellow must be in residence in the Cambridge area, and at the Ash Center, for the duration of the academic year. The stipend will be $50,000 and the fellow will be eligible for health care benefits. The fellow will also be granted a research stipend of up to $5000.

Fellowship Background

The Roy and Lila Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard Kennedy School strives to make the world a better place by advancing excellence and innovation in governance and public policy through research, education, and public discussion. By training the very best leaders, developing powerful new ideas, and disseminating innovative solutions and institutional reforms, the Center’s goal is to meet the profound challenges facing the world’s citizens.

The Initiative on History and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School will bring together scholars, practitioners, students, and policymakers with the goal of linking our interpretations of the past with our approach to contemporary policy issues. The Initiative will draw on the expertise and leadership of faculty and practitioners at HKS who work and teach at the intersection of history and public policy.

The Initiative will serve as a meeting point between scholars and practitioners eager to draw on historical knowledge and expertise to promote successful policy outcomes. Members of and participants in the Initiative will bring historical perspective to bear on the work and challenges facing policy makers.