Wilson Center Research Fellowship 2026: Policy, Technology, Economics (PhD-level) Wilson Center in United States

The Wilson Center Research Fellowship Program 2026–2027 is now open for applications, offering a prestigious, fully funded one-year research opportunity in Washington, D.C. This fellowship is designed for PhD scholars and senior-level professionals—including practitioners, journalists, and policy leaders—who are committed to producing nonpartisan, policy-relevant research. Fellows receive a competitive stipend of $10,000 per month, totaling $120,000 for the year, enabling them to focus exclusively on their research and active engagement with the Center’s intellectual community.

The Wilson Center serves as a bridge between scholarship and policy, providing fellows with direct access to policymakers, diplomats, and global experts. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and policy engagement, making it one of the most sought-after fellowships for global thought leaders. Research proposals must align with at least one of the Center’s four core pillars: strategic competition, economic statecraft, technology and innovation, or regional scholarship. Projects must be nonpartisan and demonstrate high scholarly quality, with outputs such as book manuscripts, policy briefs, or thematic roundtables for policymakers.

Eligibility requirements are rigorous. Academic applicants must hold a PhD and have published at least one book or monograph beyond their dissertation. Non-academic professionals must have at least 10 years of relevant experience and a strong record of policy impact or leadership. All applicants must be proficient in English, and institutional affiliation is not required. The fellowship runs from June 1, 2026, to May 30, 2027, with applications closing on January 16, 2026. Early submission is advised to ensure timely completion of all application components, including letters of recommendation.

This opportunity is ideal for those whose work focuses on policy research, strategic competition, economic statecraft, technology and innovation, or regional studies. Fellows are expected to fully engage in the Center’s events, seminars, and collaborative discussions, expanding both their scholarly output and their impact on contemporary policy issues. The Wilson Center Research Fellowship is a mark of distinction, with alumni advancing to leadership roles in government, academia, and international organizations. For more information and to apply, visit the official Wilson Center website.