StudyDesk Scholarships
About the program
The Bloomberg Harvard Visiting Scholars Program 2027 is the inaugural residential research program of the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University. It supports rigorous, policy-relevant research on urban problem-solving and city leadership, building a collaborative community of researchers whose work strengthens both scholarship and real-world city governance.
Eligibility
- Hold a doctoral degree or comparable terminal research degree.
- Currently hold a faculty or research appointment at a degree-granting university or recognised research institution.
- Research must align with the Center's mission: urban problem-solving, city leadership, public-sector innovation — e.g. mayoral leadership, evidence-based policymaking, data/AI in governance, high-performing public teams.
- Researchers from any discipline and career stage may apply.
Benefits
- One semester or one full academic year in residence at the Bloomberg Center for Cities, Harvard University.
- Housing near Harvard University.
- Financial assistance enabling dedicated research time (may support course buyout or stepping back from regular obligations).
- Access to Harvard's intellectual community — faculty, students, practitioners.
- Possible visa sponsorship, subject to circumstances and institutional policies.
Documents required
As listed on the program application page — including a clearly defined research proposal (questions, methodology, significance, expected outcomes).
How to apply
- Prepare your research proposalAddressing an important urban problem.
- Apply via the Bloomberg Center for CitiesApplications opened 16 September 2026.
- Applications closed 28 October 2026Selection notifications expected in February.
FAQs
Yes — 2027 is the inaugural cohort.
One semester or one full academic year, at Harvard in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Researchers from any discipline may apply if their work clearly relates to urban problem-solving and city leadership.
Yes — housing near Harvard University plus financial assistance for the research residency.
Verified 29 Oct 2026 on the official Bloomberg Center for Cities page (cities.harvard.edu): Timeline — Application Closes October 28th, no extension shown; deadline has now passed. Originally verified 16 Oct 2026 via OpportunityDesk, OYA Opportunities and YouthOp (deadline 28 Oct 2026; doctoral degree required; semester/year residency; housing + financial assistance; inaugural cohort; applications opened 16 Sept 2026).
