Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027: Fully Funded Career Boost
Imagine advancing your career in international affairs with a fully funded opportunity at one of the world’s leading think tanks. The Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027 offers early-to-mid career professionals a chance to spend ten months in London. This program supports personal research projects while building skills and networks. It suits people from fields like academia, NGOs, and government. This article covers eligibility, benefits, program details, and how to apply.
What is the Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship?
The Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship is a ten-month program. It starts in October 2026. Fellows work on their own research project at Chatham House in London. This is a joint effort with Richard and Susan Hayden. Fellows join the Institute’s main work. They build leadership skills and grow their networks in international affairs.
Key features include:
- A personal research project with expert guidance.
- Contributions to ongoing research teams at Chatham House.
- A Leadership Masterclass Programme for skill development.
These elements help fellows advance in their careers.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants from all nationalities can apply. They need a completed BA degree or equivalent. Research experience is required. Candidates should be at early-to-mid career stage.
Career Background
Ideal applicants work in academia, NGOs, business, government departments, civil society, or media. They must know international affairs. They should also understand their research area and Chatham House’s mission. There are no age restrictions.
Requirements at a glance:
- All nationalities welcome.
- BA degree or equivalent.
- Research experience.
- Early-to-mid career in listed fields.
- Interest in international affairs and Chatham House.
Duration, Location, and Timeline
The fellowship lasts ten months, from October 2026 to July 2027. Fellows work full-time at Chatham House in London. Hybrid options are available.
Here is a simple timeline:
| Milestone | Date/Details |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 7 April 2026 |
| Program Start | October 2026 |
| Program End | July 2027 |
This schedule helps you plan ahead.
Financial Support and Benefits
Fellows receive a monthly stipend of £2,365. It covers living costs in London like accommodation, utilities, food, transport, and basics.
Monthly stipend: £2,365
Chatham House pays for other costs too. These include relocation like flights and visas. They cover the UK’s Immigration Healthcare Surcharge for NHS access. Research expenses such as fieldwork, travel, and conferences are included. After the program, alumni get access to the Academy network and five-year Chatham House membership.
| Category | Details | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | £2,365 | Living costs (accommodation, food, etc.) |
| Relocation | Flights, visas, initial accommodation | Full reasonable costs |
| Healthcare | UK Immigration Healthcare Surcharge | Full |
| Research & Outreach | Fieldwork, conferences, events | Reasonable costs |
| Post-Fellowship | Alumni access, 5-year membership | Included |
Programme Structure and Time Allocation
Fellows divide their time into three main areas. About 60% goes to a personal research project with Chatham House expert guidance. They spend 20% contributing to research teams. The other 20% is for the Leadership Masterclass Programme.
| Activity | Percentage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Research Project | 60% | Individual project with expert support |
| Team Contributions | 20% | Work on Chatham House research priorities |
| Leadership Programme | 20% | Skills, networking, and development |
Leadership Masterclass Programme
This program builds leadership skills. It includes:
- Intensive induction week to start strong.
- Thematic sessions on global challenges.
- Workshops on skills like negotiation.
- Briefings with global leaders.
- Project presentations for feedback.
- Personal coaching sessions.
- Media training with mock interviews.
- Optional career mentoring.
Leadership Masterclass Programme Components
The Leadership Masterclass helps fellows grow as leaders. It starts with an intensive five-day induction week. Fellows meet their team and get coaching.
Other parts include:
- Thematic sessions: Discuss international issues with experts. Fellows chair and share experiences.
- Leadership skills workshops: Half-day focus on policy impact, crisis management, and more.
- Leadership briefings: Talks with leaders from government, business, and nonprofits.
- Project presentations: Updates on research for peer review and new insights.
- Personal development coaching: One-on-one sessions to set and meet goals.
- Media training: Practice interviews for TV and radio with feedback.
- Career mentoring (optional): Pairing with mentors for career advice.
These build self-awareness and networks for future success.
How to Apply
Visit the official webpage to apply. Prepare a research proposal on international affairs. Align it with Chatham House’s mission.
Apply by 7 April 2026: Visit the Official Webpage
Start early to strengthen your application. This chance can transform your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration and location of the fellowship?
It lasts ten months from October 2026 to July 2027 at Chatham House in London, with hybrid options available.
Who is eligible to apply?
Early-to-mid career professionals from any nationality with a BA degree, research experience, and backgrounds in academia, NGOs, government, or related fields.
What financial benefits does it provide?
Fellows get a £2,365 monthly stipend for living costs, plus full coverage for relocation, visas, healthcare surcharge, and research expenses.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Visit the official Chatham House webpage and submit a research proposal on international affairs by 7 April 2026.