Chatham House Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027: Fully Funded in London
Imagine advancing your career in international affairs with a fully funded opportunity in London. The Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027 gives early-to-mid-career professionals a chance to spend 10 months at Chatham House. You can work on your own research project, join leadership training, and build a strong network.
This article covers the fellowship details. It includes what the program offers, who can apply, benefits like the stipend, the full structure, and how to submit your application.
What is the Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship?
The Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027 is a 10-month program. It supports early-to-mid-career professionals as they tackle a personal research project at Chatham House in London. This joint effort with Richard and Susan Hayden lets fellows join the institute’s main work. They build skills through leadership training and grow their networks in international affairs.
Fellows divide their time in three main ways:
- Personal research project (60%): Fellows pick and shape their own project with help from a Chatham House expert.
- Team research contributions (20%): Fellows support their host team and other groups on key research topics.
- Leadership program (20%): Fellows take part in training to sharpen their skills as future leaders.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants come from diverse backgrounds. The fellowship welcomes all nationalities. You need a completed BA degree or equivalent, plus experience in research. Ideal candidates work in academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, or media at the early-to-mid-career stage. Strong knowledge of international affairs helps, along with interest in your research area and Chatham House’s goals. There are no age limits.
| Requirement | Details | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship | Open to all nationalities | Broadens global participation |
| Education | Completed BA or equivalent; research experience required | Ensures readiness for independent work |
| Career Stage | Early-to-mid-career in academia, NGO, business, government, civil society, or media | Targets professionals ready to grow |
| Knowledge | Interest in international affairs, research topic, and Chatham House mission | Aligns with program goals |
| Age | No restrictions | Includes candidates at various life stages |
Duration, Location, and Stipend
The fellowship runs for 10 months, from October 2026 to July 2027. Fellows work full-time at Chatham House in London. Hybrid options make it flexible.
Monthly Stipend: £2,365
This covers living costs in London, such as accommodation, utilities, food, transport, and other basics.
Benefits and Additional Support
Chatham House covers more than just the stipend. Fellows get help with relocation, like flights, trains, visas, and a few nights of housing. The program pays the UK’s Immigration Healthcare Surcharge for access to the National Health Service. Note that dental, optical care, and some medicines may cost extra.
Research and outreach get support too, including fieldwork, travel, conferences, events, and publishing. After finishing, alumni join the Academy network and get five years of Chatham House membership.
Key benefits include:
- Relocation expenses (flights, visas, initial housing)
- Healthcare surcharge for NHS access
- Research costs (fieldwork, conferences, publication)
- Alumni network and five-year membership
- Leadership skills for long-term career growth
Programme Structure
Fellows balance their time across three areas. They spend 60% on a personal research project with expert guidance. Another 20% goes to helping the host team’s research. The final 20% focuses on the Leadership Masterclass.
| Time Allocation | Activities | Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| 60% | Personal research project with Chatham House expert guidance | Completed individual research output |
| 20% | Contribute to host team and other research priorities | Hands-on institute experience |
| 20% | Leadership Masterclass Programme (workshops, coaching, briefings) | Enhanced leadership and networks |
Leadership Masterclass Programme Details
The Leadership Masterclass builds key skills. It starts strong and progresses through hands-on sessions.
- Intensive induction week: A five-day start to meet teams, learn the program, and begin coaching.
- Thematic sessions: Discuss global challenges with experts; fellows chair and share experiences.
- Leadership skills workshops: Half-day focus on policy impact, stakeholder mapping, crisis management, and negotiation.
- Leadership briefings: Informal talks with leaders from government, business, media, and nonprofits.
- Project presentations: Share research updates for feedback and peer review.
- Personal development coaching: One-on-one sessions to set and meet goals.
- Media training: Practice TV and radio interviews with feedback.
- Career mentoring (optional): Pair with a mentor for career advice.
How to Apply
The deadline is 7 April 2026. Check the official fellowship webpage for all details.
Prepare with these steps:
- Review eligibility and Chatham House’s mission.
- Draft a research proposal on your topic.
- Update your CV with research experience.
- Gather references and supporting documents.
- Submit online before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chatham House Hayden Academy Fellowship?
It is a 10-month program in London for early-to-mid-career professionals to work on personal research, team projects, and leadership training.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Applicants need a BA or equivalent, research experience, and work in fields like academia, NGOs, or government; all nationalities are welcome with no age limit.
What does the stipend cover?
The £2,365 monthly stipend helps with housing, food, transport, and basic living costs in London.
When is the application deadline?
Submit your application online by 7 April 2026, including your research proposal, CV, and references.