Visiting Scholar

The Department hosts visiting scholars who wish to come to Harvard to pursue independent research. Visiting Scholars are welcome to share in the intellectual life of the Department by attending workshops and seminars, auditing courses, and interacting with our faculty and students. In addition, Visiting Scholars are granted access to Harvard’s extensive library facilities. We do not provide office space for visitors, but they are encouraged to reserve carrel space in Widener library.

Funding

The Department is unfortunately unable to provide financial support to Visiting Scholars. If accepted, visitors must submit proof of sufficient funds to underwrite their living and travel expenses during the period of their visit. 

Applying

The application process for Visiting Scholars is highly competitive and generally only those applicants possessing either a Ph.D. or a Master’s degree with significant teaching and/or research experience are considered. This appointment is ordinarily granted to individuals on paid leave from a scholarly post elsewhere. Applications are reviewed during faculty meetings each September and March for the following academic year. A key criterion for acceptance is whether or not the scholar’s research interests are closely aligned with those of a member of our faculty. Therefore, if considering applying, please take a look at our faculty profiles.

Information for applying as a Visiting Scholar can be found here.