Applications are now open for the Berkman Klein Center Fellowship 2026 & 2026–2027 at Harvard University. This prestigious program invites scholars and practitioners to conduct cutting-edge research on AI, technology governance, and digital society. Deadline: December 5, 2025.
About the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society (BKC)
Founded in 1996, the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society (BKC) at Harvard University is a world-renowned interdisciplinary hub that studies the relationship between technology, law, and society.
BKC’s mission is to advance understanding and shape the ethical, legal, and societal implications of technology and AI. The Center brings together scholars, technologists, policymakers, and activists to explore how digital tools impact governance, human rights, and innovation.
The BKC Fellowship Program embodies this mission — fostering collaboration between disciplines and supporting research that drives public interest in technology and AI.
Overview of the Fellowship Program
The Berkman Klein Center Fellowship 2026–2027 offers scholars and practitioners the opportunity to pursue independent, high-impact research in an interdisciplinary setting. Fellows contribute to BKC’s global conversations on AI ethics, governance, and societal implications while mentoring students and engaging with the Harvard community.
Applicants may apply for one of two fellowship terms:
- January – August 2026 (8 months)
- September 2026 – August 2027 (12 months)
Applicants may also request to be considered for both periods.
Fellows are strongly encouraged to be in residence in Cambridge, Massachusetts, though non-residential arrangements are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Fellowship Research Priorities for 2026 and 2026–2027
The 2026 fellowship cycle centers on AI governance and human-centered research. BKC invites proposals under five strategic themes:
1. Agentic AI
This theme explores the rise of autonomous AI agents — systems that act independently, pursue objectives, and influence social or economic environments. Research should address governance, accountability, and multi-agent interactions.
2. Language Model Interpretability
Fellows may investigate how and why language models operate as they do, developing interpretability methods and frameworks for transparency, safety, and auditability in AI systems.
3. Benchmarking AI Beyond Intelligence
This track questions whether existing AI benchmarks measure what truly matters. It encourages projects that evaluate agency, ethics, empathy, and self-awareness in AI — moving beyond narrow definitions of “intelligence.”
4. AI & the Human Experience
Research in this area examines how AI affects human relationships, creativity, cognitive development, spirituality, and social-emotional health, developing policies that reinforce human dignity and well-being.
5. Bridging the AI Triad
This theme fosters dialogue between three dominant perspectives on AI — accelerationists, safetyists, and skeptics — to promote balanced, collaborative policymaking and innovation.
Who Should Apply for the BKC Fellowship
The BKC Fellowship welcomes academics, practitioners, technologists, and interdisciplinary researchers from around the world.
Academics and Scholars
- University faculty (assistant, associate, or full professors)
- Postdoctoral researchers and Ph.D. holders
- Scholars pursuing independent research on technology and society
Practitioners and Technologists
- Professionals in AI, policy, government, industry, or civil society
- Innovators and engineers developing open-source or public-interest technology
- Experts with experience bridging technical and non-technical disciplines
International Applicants
BKC collaborates with the Harvard International Office (HIO) to sponsor visas for eligible international fellows. More details can be found on the HIO website.
Program Duration and Appointment Options For Berkman Klein Center Fellowship 2026 & 2026–2027
| Term | Dates | Residency |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Fellowship | January – August 2026 | Up to 8 months |
| Full Academic Fellowship | September 2026 – August 2027 | 12 months |
| Dual Consideration | January 2026 – August 2027 | Case-by-case basis |
BKC recommends fellows spend a majority of their term in Cambridge, working on-site at Harvard Law School’s campus to engage with faculty and students.
Funding and Stipend Information
The Berkman Klein Center offers a limited number of funded fellowships.
- Fully Funded Fellows: May receive up to $6,250 per month (maximum $75,000 per year)
- Externally Funded Fellows: Applicants with institutional or sabbatical funding are also welcome
Funding decisions depend on merit, project quality, and financial need. Fellows are responsible for any applicable taxes on stipends.
Application Requirements and Documents
Applicants must submit the following materials in PDF format by December 5, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- 1–2 Page Cover Letter: Describing background, motivations, and alignment with BKC’s mission
- 2–3 Page Project Proposal: Detailing research objectives, methodology, and impact
- 1–3 Work Samples: Published papers, policy briefs, or creative outputs relevant to the project
- Two Professional References: Contact details only (letters requested later if shortlisted)
Each file must be under 5 MB.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the official Berkman Klein Center Fellowship page.
- Click “Apply Here” to access the online application form.
- Complete all required fields and upload your documents as PDFs.
- Indicate your preferred fellowship period (January–August 2026, September 2026–August 2027, or both).
- Submit before December 5, 2025 (11:59 p.m. ET).
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Selection Criteria and Expectations
BKC selects fellows based on:
- Relevance of the project to BKC’s research priorities
- Interdisciplinary and societal impact
- Quality and feasibility of the research plan
- Applicant’s record of public engagement and collaboration
Fellows are expected to:
- Produce at least one public output (research paper, tool, or public engagement project)
- Participate in BKC events, workshops, and mentorship programs
- Engage with the Harvard academic community
Access to Harvard Resources and Opportunities
Fellows enjoy access to:
- Shared office space at Harvard Law School
- Harvard library systems and research tools
- Cross-university collaborations and seminars
- Opportunities to audit courses or teach classes (case-by-case basis)
- Health insurance eligibility through Harvard (subject to policy review)
BKC’s diverse and inclusive environment is guided by Harvard’s Notice of Nondiscrimination, ensuring equal opportunity regardless of background, gender, or belief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Researchers, academics, and professionals from all disciplines with expertise in AI, governance, or digital ethics are eligible.
2. What is the fellowship duration?
Fellowships may last 8 or 12 months, depending on the selected term.
3. Can international applicants apply?
Yes. BKC supports international scholars through Harvard’s visa sponsorship program.
4. What is the stipend amount?
Up to $6,250 per month, or $75,000 per year, depending on funding availability.
5. Are remote fellowships allowed?
In-person presence in Cambridge is preferred, but non-residential arrangements are considered individually.
6. What is the application deadline?
All materials must be submitted by Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Conclusion
The Berkman Klein Center Fellowship 2026 & 2026–2027 offers a rare opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research at the intersection of AI, law, and society. Whether you’re a technologist developing new models or a policy researcher shaping digital governance, this fellowship provides the intellectual freedom, community, and resources to make lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about ethical, human-centered AI and eager to collaborate with global experts, apply now to join Harvard’s vibrant Berkman Klein Center community.
👉 Apply Here: Berkman Klein Center Fellowship Application
📅 Deadline: December 5, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET
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