Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027: Fully Funded
The Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027, known as the Richard and Susan Hayden Fellowship, offers early- to mid-career professionals a fully funded chance to lead in international affairs. This 10-month program in London lets you research global issues, build skills, and connect with experts at Chatham House, a top policy institute. If you work in government, NGOs, business, or media and want to shape policy, this could be your path forward.
About Chatham House and the Fellowship
Chatham House, or the Royal Institute of International Affairs, studies world problems to promote a safe, fair future. Its Academy trains new leaders through research and networks. The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship stands out by letting you do your own project while joining the institute’s work.
Program Overview and Key Details
This full-time program runs from October 2026 to July 2027 at Chatham House in London, with some hybrid options. The deadline to apply is April 17, 2026, and it welcomes people from any country. You must focus only on the fellowship, with no other jobs or studies.
How the Fellowship Works
The program splits into three parts for a full experience.
Independent Research Project (60% of Time)
You pick a topic in international affairs that fits your skills. A Chatham House expert guides you. The goal is to create useful policy reports or papers.
Work on Institute Research (20% of Time)
Join teams on current projects. Help with research, talks, and outputs that match Chatham House goals.
Leadership Training (20% of Time)
Build skills through workshops and events tailored for global roles.
Leadership Program Breakdown
This part helps you grow as a leader with hands-on training.
- Induction Week: A five-day start covers the program rules and setup.
- Thematic Sessions: Talk about big issues with experts.
- Skills Workshops: Learn policy influence, talks with groups, crisis handling, and deals.
- Leader Briefings: Meet top figures for real advice.
- Project Shares: Show your work for feedback from peers.
- Coaching: Get personal sessions to set goals.
- Media Skills: Practice TV and radio interviews.
- Mentoring: Optional career help from pros.
Money and Support Provided
You get full funding to live and work in London without worry.
Stipend and Costs Covered
- £2,365 monthly for living.
- Travel flights, short-term housing, visas, and health fees.
- Money for research trips, events, and publishing.
Extra Perks
Join high-level talks, host events, and get five years of Chatham House membership. Stay linked to alumni after.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Rules
Open to all nationalities at early- to mid-career stage. You need a bachelor’s degree, research experience, and a job in academia, NGOs, government, business, civil society, or media. Show leadership promise, English skills, and fit with the institute’s goals.
Reasons to Go For It
Research at a world-class spot, gain policy tools, meet influencers, grow your contacts, and help fix global problems.
What to Submit for Application
Send your CV, two referee names, and a research plan tied to key themes. Check the Chatham House careers page for full info.
How They Pick Winners
Judges look at your research background, leadership fit, project match, drive, and impact potential.
Steps in Selection
First, they review and shortlist apps. Then, Zoom interviews with leaders. Winners hear by email.
Apply by April 17, 2026, and start early for a strong shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chatham House Academy Fellowship?
The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship is a 10-month fully funded program in London for early- to mid-career professionals to research global issues, join institute projects, and build leadership skills at Chatham House.
When is the application deadline for 2026/2027?
The deadline to apply is April 17, 2026.
Who is eligible to apply?
It is open to all nationalities with a bachelor’s degree, research experience, work in relevant fields like government or NGOs, leadership potential, and strong English skills.
What financial support does the fellowship provide?
Fellows receive a £2,365 monthly stipend, economy flights, short-term housing, visas, health fees, and funds for research trips, events, and publishing.