Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027: Fully Funded Opportunity for Global Leaders

Are you an early- to mid-career professional ready to tackle global challenges? The Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027, known as the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship, offers a fully funded 10-month program in London. This chance lets you conduct research, build leadership skills, and connect with experts at a top policy institute.

About Chatham House and the Academy Fellowship

Chatham House, or the Royal Institute of International Affairs, is a key think tank that studies international issues. Its Academy trains future leaders through research, skills training, and networks. The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship helps fellows do independent work while supporting the institute’s goals for a secure and fair world.

Fellowship Overview

This program mixes research, leadership growth, and work inside Chatham House. It runs full-time, so fellows focus only on it.

Key Details

Duration: 10 months, from October 2026 to July 2027.
Location: Chatham House in London, with some hybrid options.
Deadline: April 17, 2026.
Eligibility: Open to all nationalities.

Fellowship Structure

The program splits into three parts for a full experience.

1. Independent Research Project (60%)

Fellows pick a topic in international affairs that fits their skills. They get help from a Chatham House expert and create policy outputs like reports.

2. Contribution to Chatham House Research (20%)

Fellows join ongoing projects. They work with teams, help with research priorities, and join policy talks.

3. Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%)

This part builds skills for leadership roles in global settings.

Leadership Programme Components

The leadership training covers many areas to prepare fellows for impact.

Key Elements

Induction Week: A five-day start with program details and goals.
Thematic Sessions: Talks on world issues with experts.
Leadership Skills Workshops: Training in policy impact, stakeholder work, crisis handling, and negotiation.
Leadership Briefings: Meetings with top leaders for real insights.
Project Presentations: Fellows share work for feedback from peers.
Personal Development Coaching: One-on-one help for goals and growth.
Media Training: Practice for TV and radio interviews.
Career Mentoring (Optional): Guidance from mentors on career paths.

Financial Benefits and Support

Fellows get full funding to live and work in London without worry.

Financial Package

Monthly Stipend: £2,365 for living costs.
Relocation Coverage: Flights, temporary housing, visas, and UK health surcharge.
Research Funding: Money for fieldwork, conferences, publications, and events.

Additional Benefits

Entry to Chatham House’s worldwide network.
Spots in high-level policy events.
Chance to run research discussions.
Five-year membership after the program.
Links to alumni and staff for years ahead.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

Open to early- to mid-career pros from any country.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equal.
Research experience.
Background in academia, NGOs, government, business, civil society, or media.
Interest in international affairs.
Leadership promise.
Strong English skills.
Commitment to Chatham House’s aims.

Why Apply to the Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027

This program lets you research at a top think tank, gain policy and leadership skills, meet experts, grow your network, and help solve world problems.

Application Requirements

Submit a CV, two referees’ names, and a research proposal on fellowship themes.

Selection Criteria

Judges look at research background, leadership potential, research fit, motivation, and impact ability.

Selection Process

Stage 1: Review applications and shortlist.
Stage 2: Zoom interviews with senior staff.

Winners hear by email. Check the Chatham House page for more.

Application Deadline

Apply by April 17, 2026. Send early for a strong shot. See the careers page for full info.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration and location of the Chatham House Academy Fellowship?

The fellowship lasts 10 months from October 2026 to July 2027 and takes place at Chatham House in London, with some hybrid options.

Who is eligible to apply for the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship?

Early- to mid-career professionals from any nationality with a bachelor’s degree, research experience, and strong English skills can apply.

What financial support does the fellowship provide?

Fellows receive a monthly stipend of £2,365, relocation coverage including flights and visas, and research funding for fieldwork and events.

When is the application deadline for the 2026/2027 fellowship?

Applications are due by April 17, 2026; submit early for the best chance.