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

Are you an early- to mid-career professional passionate about international affairs? The Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027, known as the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship, offers a fully funded chance to advance your career. This 10-month program in London brings together global leaders to tackle key world issues through research and skill-building.

About Chatham House and the Academy Fellowship

Chatham House, or the Royal Institute of International Affairs, is a top think tank that studies global problems. Its Academy trains future leaders with research, training, and connections. The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship helps fellows do their own research while supporting the institute’s goal of a safer, greener, and fairer 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.
• Open to: People from any country.

Fellowship Structure

The program splits into three parts for a full experience.

Independent Research Project (60%)

Fellows pick and lead their own project on international topics. They get help from a Chatham House expert and create policy outputs like reports.

Contribution to Chatham House Research (20%)

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

Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%)

This part builds skills for leading in global roles.

Leadership Programme Components

The leadership training covers many areas to prepare fellows for big challenges.

Induction Week

A five-day start introduces the program and sets expectations.

Thematic Sessions

Fellows discuss world issues with experts.

Leadership Skills Workshops

Sessions teach policy impact, working with others, handling crises, and negotiation.

Leadership Briefings

Meet global leaders to learn their approaches.

Project Presentations

Share research updates and get feedback from peers.

Personal Development Coaching

One-on-one help for goals and growth.

Media Training

Practice TV and radio interviews with tips.

Career Mentoring (Optional)

Get advice from mentors on career steps.

Financial Benefits and Support

The fellowship covers all costs so fellows can concentrate.

Financial Package

• Monthly stipend: £2,365 for living in London.
• Relocation: Flights, short-term housing, visas, and health fees.
• Research funds: For trips, events, conferences, and publishing.

Additional Benefits

Fellows gain entry to Chatham House networks, high-level talks, and event hosting. After finishing, they get five years of membership and ongoing alumni access.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

Open to early- to mid-career pros from anywhere.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equal.
• Research experience.
• Work in academia, NGOs, government, business, civil society, or media.
• Interest in international affairs.
• Leadership promise.
• Good English skills.

Why You Should Apply

Join to do key research at a top institute, gain leadership tools, meet experts, build networks, 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, project fit, drive, and impact potential.

Selection Process

Stage 1

Review applications and pick shortlist.

Stage 2

Zoom interview with leaders.

Winners hear by email.

Application Deadline

Apply by April 17, 2026. Send early for best results. Check the Chatham House careers page for details.

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 country with a bachelor’s degree, research experience, and interest in international affairs can apply.

What financial support does the fellowship provide?

It offers a monthly stipend of £2,365, relocation costs like flights and housing, and research funds for trips and conferences.

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

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