Are you an early- to mid-career professional passionate about international affairs? The Chatham House Academy Fellowship 2026/2027, known as the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship, offers a fully funded chance to advance your career. This 10-month program in London brings together global leaders to tackle key world issues through research and skill-building.
What Is Chatham House?
Chatham House, or the Royal Institute of International Affairs, stands as a top think tank. It focuses on studying global problems and finding solutions. The Academy at Chatham House trains future leaders with research, training, and connections worldwide.
The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship helps fellows pursue their own research. At the same time, it supports the institute’s goal of a safer, greener, and fairer world.
Program Overview
This fellowship mixes research, leadership growth, and work inside Chatham House. It runs full-time, so fellows focus only on the program.
Main Facts
- Length: 10 months, from October 2026 to July 2027
- Place: Chatham House in London, with some hybrid options
- Deadline: April 17, 2026
- Who Can Join: People from any country
How the Fellowship Works
The program splits into three parts for a full experience.
1. Your Own Research Project (60% of Time)
Fellows pick a topic in international affairs that matches their skills. They get help from a Chatham House expert. The goal is to create useful policy reports or papers.
2. Help with Institute Research (20% of Time)
Fellows join ongoing projects at Chatham House. They work with teams, join talks, and aid policy work.
3. Leadership Training (20% of Time)
This part builds skills for leading in global roles.
Leadership Training Details
The leadership program includes several key activities.
Induction Week
A five-day start covers the program’s rules and setup.
Thematic Sessions
Talks on big world problems with experts.
Skills Workshops
Training in policy influence, working with others, handling crises, and negotiating.
Leadership Briefings
Meetings with top leaders to learn their methods.
Project Presentations
Fellows share updates and get feedback from peers.
Personal Coaching
One-on-one help for goals and growth.
Media Training
Practice for TV and radio interviews.
Career Mentoring
Optional guidance from mentors.
Money and Support Provided
The fellowship covers all costs so fellows can concentrate.
Stipend and Travel
- Monthly pay: £2,365 for London living
- Relocation help: flights, short-term housing, visas, health fees
Research Funds
Money for trips, events, conferences, and publishing.
Extra Perks
- Join Chatham House’s worldwide network
- Take part in top policy meetings
- Run your own discussion events
- Get five-year membership after finishing
- Stay linked to alumni and staff
Who Qualifies?
Open to all nationalities at early- to mid-career stage.
Needed Background
- Bachelor’s degree or equal
- Research experience
- Work in academia, NGOs, government, business, civil society, or media
- Interest in global issues
- Leadership promise
- Good English skills
Reasons to Apply
This program lets you do key research at a top institute. You gain leadership tools, meet experts, grow your network, and help fix world problems.
What to Submit
- Your CV or resume
- Two referee names
- Research proposal on fellowship topics
How They Pick Winners
Judges look at your research skills, leadership, proposal fit, drive, and impact potential.
Steps
- Review applications and pick shortlist
- Zoom interview with leaders
Winners hear by email.
Final Deadline
Apply by April 17, 2026. Send early for best results. Check the Chatham House careers page for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length and location of the Chatham House Academy Fellowship?
The fellowship lasts 10 months from October 2026 to July 2027 and takes place at Chatham House in London, with some hybrid options.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
Early- to mid-career professionals from any country with a bachelor’s degree, research experience, work in relevant fields, and good English skills can apply.
What financial support does the fellowship provide?
It offers a monthly stipend of £2,365, relocation help including flights and visas, and research funds for trips and conferences.
What is the application deadline for the 2026/2027 fellowship?
The deadline is April 17, 2026, so apply early through the Chatham House careers page.

Conversation
0 Comments