Boston University Non-Resident Global Health Politics Fellowship: A Guide for Aspiring Scholars

The Boston University Global Health Politics Workshop is offering a unique opportunity for doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career academics. This non-resident fellowship for the 2026-2027 academic year focuses on the critical intersection of politics and global health. It provides a platform for scholars to connect with leading experts, receive mentorship, and expand their professional networks without the need to relocate. Applications are open until July 3, 2026, making it a timely chance for those passionate about shaping global health policy.

Understanding the Global Health Politics Workshop

The Global Health Politics Workshop at Boston University is an interdisciplinary forum dedicated to exploring how political, social, and institutional factors impact health outcomes worldwide. It aims to understand how research in this field can help solve some of the planet’s most pressing health issues. The workshop tackles major topics such as viral pandemics and preparedness, non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, universal health coverage, and global health governance. It also examines power imbalances between the Global North and South and the processes of international health policy and decision-making. By bringing together scholars from various backgrounds, the workshop fosters dialogue and collaboration on global health challenges.

The Advantages of a Non-Resident Fellowship

A key feature of this fellowship is its non-residential nature. Unlike many academic programs that require fellows to move to the host university’s location, this program utilizes virtual technology. This allows participants to engage fully with faculty, workshop attendees, guest speakers, and the Steering Committee from anywhere in the world. This flexibility is especially beneficial for scholars who wish to continue their current academic or professional commitments while still gaining valuable experience and building an international network of experts in global health politics.

Fellowship Responsibilities and Engagement

Selected fellows will become active participants in the Global Health Politics Workshop community throughout the 2026-2027 academic year. Responsibilities include attending all eight scheduled workshop talks and participating in four workshop sessions each semester. These sessions can be joined virtually via Zoom, or in person if the fellow is based in Boston. Active engagement in discussions and question-and-answer sessions is expected. Fellows will also have the chance to join optional one-on-one meetings with visiting speakers, receive mentorship, and provide constructive feedback on ongoing research projects. Collaboration with other fellows and Steering Committee members is also a key component, contributing to intellectual discussions on current global health issues.

Key Benefits for Fellows

The fellowship offers significant academic and professional advantages. Participants gain access to a prestigious academic network of researchers and practitioners in global health politics, which can lead to future collaborations and career opportunities. They will receive mentorship from experienced faculty and experts, helping to refine their research and academic contributions. Engagement with distinguished guest speakers and leading researchers provides exposure to diverse perspectives on global health policy. The program also aims to increase professional visibility for fellows, offering chances to present ideas and discuss research with influential scholars. Furthermore, fellows receive support for research development through constructive feedback on manuscripts, dissertation chapters, and policy analyses. A modest stipend of approximately $350 is also provided.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must be current PhD students in good standing, postdoctoral fellows researching global health politics, or first-year professors. A strong interest in the politics of global health, broadly defined, is essential. The program welcomes interdisciplinary perspectives, particularly from scholars whose work touches on the political, social, governance, policy, or institutional aspects of health.

Applicants need to submit a cover letter and a Curriculum Vitae (CV). The cover letter should explain the applicant’s interest in the fellowship, describe their research interests, and detail how participation aligns with their academic and career goals. The CV must be up-to-date, outlining educational background, research experience, publications, and other relevant achievements. It is important to note that applications generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) will not be considered. Applications should be sent directly to Joseph Harris, Director of the Global Health Politics Workshop.

Application Timeline and Selection Process

The application review period will take place from July 2026 to early August 2026. Notifications for selected fellows are expected in mid-to-late August 2026. Successful applicants will then join the workshop for the 2026-2027 academic year. The application deadline is July 3, 2026, at 8:00 PM EST.

Why Apply for This Fellowship?

For doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career academics in global health politics, this fellowship presents a valuable chance to engage with leading experts while remaining in their current location. The combination of mentorship, networking, research feedback, and professional development makes it an excellent platform for advancing academic careers and contributing to global health policy. As global health challenges become more complex, opportunities like the Boston University Non-Resident Global Health Politics Fellowship are vital for supporting the next generation of scholars dedicated to improving health outcomes and governance worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Boston University Non-Resident Global Health Politics Fellowship?

It’s a program for doctoral students, postdocs, and early-career academics to engage with global health politics experts without needing to relocate.

What are the main responsibilities of a fellow?

Fellows must attend eight workshop talks and four workshop sessions per semester, participating actively in discussions and Q&A.

What are the benefits of this fellowship?

Benefits include access to an academic network, mentorship, exposure to guest speakers, increased professional visibility, research feedback, and a small stipend.