Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program 2026: Visiting Research Opportunity at Harvard University for Urban Problem-Solving and City Leadership
The Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program invites applications from eligible researchers to spend a semester or full academic year in residence at Harvard University. Selected scholars receive dedicated time, housing, and financial support to advance policy-relevant research on urban problem-solving and city leadership.
Overview
The Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program is an initiative hosted by the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University. It provides researchers with protected time to pursue rigorous, policy-relevant research dedicated to urban problem-solving and city leadership. Participants spend either one semester or one full academic year in residence at Harvard University, where they can advance their projects while engaging with an interdisciplinary intellectual community.
During the residency, scholars are expected to contribute to the Center's community through a limited number of structured activities, including hosting a research seminar, convening a student study group, and organizing an open event for the broader Harvard community. The initiative also provides financial support and housing near Harvard University, along with potential visa sponsorship.
Eligibility
Applicants from diverse disciplinary backgrounds and career stages are welcome to apply, provided they meet the following core requirements:
- Hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or comparable terminal research degree).
- Hold a current faculty or research appointment at a degree-granting university or recognized research institution at the time of application.
Benefits
- Protected time dedicated primarily to advancing a specific research project.
- Residency at Harvard University’s Bloomberg Center for Cities.
- Financial assistance to support sustained research time and potential course buyouts.
- Housing provided near Harvard University.
- Opportunities to lead research seminars, student study groups, and community events.
- Potential visa sponsorship, subject to institutional policies and individual circumstances.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must prepare a detailed research proposal that outlines the urban problem or city leadership challenge they intend to study, research questions, methodology, significance for research and practice, and potential outputs. Applications must be submitted online through the official portal.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by October 28, 2026.