Visiting Scholars
The Department hosts visiting scholars, ordinarily on paid leave from a scholarly post elsewhere, 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.
Application Procedure
The documents outlined below must be submitted by March 1 for consideration at the March meeting, and by August 15 for consideration at the September meeting. Those wishing to visit in the summer will be considered in the preceding September meeting. It is strongly recommended that all applications be sent several months in advance of the September and March meetings. Consideration of your application will begin when all materials have been received.
To apply for a visiting scholar position, please email us at lingdept@fas.harvard.edu and include the following materials (in English) as electronic attachments:
- a cover letter stating dates of proposed visit
- an up-to-date cv
- a brief (up to two-page) research proposal for the proposed visit
- two letters of recommendation on institutional letterhead; they can be sent by email attachment to lingdept@fas.harvard.edu
Soon after the September and March meetings, a member of our staff will notify you of the decision regarding your application. If accepted, you will be provided all necessary forms as well as instructions to assist you with the details regarding your appointment and visit.
Information for International Visitors
To comply with US Government regulations, the financial minimum for non-medical area international scholar appointments is $35,000 per year for a single scholar (pro-rated for the duration of stay) and an additional $6,500 for each accompanying family member.
We strongly urge you to refer to the Harvard International Office (HIO) website for relevant information regarding visas, health insurance, housing, travel and other general information.