The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship is a 10-month program at Chatham House, open to early-to-mid-career professionals from academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, or the media. Fellows conduct independent research, join the leadership program, and expand their international affairs network.
Chatham House is a world-leading policy institute with a mission to help governments and societies build a sustainably secure, prosperous, and just world. The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship runs from October 2025 to July 2026, and applications are open from February 28 to March 19, 2025.
Host Institution:
- Name: Chatham House (The Royal Institute of International Affairs)
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Ranking: Recognized globally as a leading policy institute on international affairs
- Programs: Fellows engage in independent research, contribute to ongoing projects, and participate in a Leadership Masterclass Programme
- Duration: Ten months (October 2025 to July 2026)
Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship Structure (Time Allocation):
- Personal Research Project (60%) – Fellows choose and conduct research under expert guidance.
- Contributing to Chatham House Research (20%) – Fellows assist ongoing research projects.
- Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%) – Training in leadership, networking, and skills development.
Study Areas:
- International Affairs (including global governance, security, and geopolitics)
- Sustainability & Climate Change
- Technology & Cybersecurity
- Global Economy & Development
- Human Rights & Social Justice
Leadership Masterclass Programme Includes:
- Induction Week – Five-day introduction to the fellowship.
- Thematic Sessions – Discussions on global issues with experts.
- Leadership Workshops – Training in policy impact, crisis management, and negotiation.
- Leadership Briefings – Insights from global leaders.
- Project Presentations – Fellows present and receive feedback.
- Personal Development Coaching – One-on-one sessions for self-growth.
- Media Training – Interview skills and feedback.
- Career Mentoring (Optional) – Guidance from experienced mentors.
Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship Benefits:
- Stipend: £2,365/month (covers living expenses in London).
- Relocation Support: Flights, visa costs, initial accommodation.
- Healthcare: UK Immigration Health Surcharge covered (excluding dental & optical).
- Research & Travel Funding: Fieldwork, conferences, and publications.
- Post-Fellowship Benefits:
- Access to the Academy’s faculty & alumni network.
- Five-year Chatham House membership.
Benefits Not Included:
- Personal expenses beyond the provided stipend
- Supplementary insurance coverage
- Costs associated with dependents or family members
Eligibilities for Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship:
- Citizenship: Open to all nationalities.
- Education: Must have a completed BA degree or equivalent with research experience.
- Career Stage: Early-to-mid-career professionals from academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, or media
- Interest Area: Must have knowledge of international affairs and Chatham House’s mission.
- Age Limit: No age restrictions.
- Work/Study Restriction: Full-time commitment required; cannot work or study simultaneously.
Selection Criteria:
- Experience in independent research (with a degree or equivalent professional training)
- Relevant background and field experience (demonstrated in CV)
- Proven leadership experience or potential
- Commitment to Chatham House’s mission and values
- Ability to create positive impact through the fellowship
- Strong motivation to engage in fellowship activities
- Proficiency in spoken English
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Names and contact information of two referees
- Research project proposal (aligned with topic guidance)
Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship Application Process:
- Prepare the required documents, including your CV, referee details, and research proposal.
- Submit your application through the official Chatham House application portal by 12am GMT on March 19, 2025.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Zoom interview with Chatham House representatives.
- Final Selection – Interviews conducted by Chatham House senior management, followed by email notifications to successful candidates
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Clearly articulate your research objectives and their relevance to international affairs.
- Demonstrate how your background and experience align with Chatham House’s mission.
- Highlight your leadership potential and commitment to contributing to global policy discussions.
- Ensure your application is well-organized, concise, and free of errors.
Monthly Living Expenses in London (Estimated):
- Accommodation: £900 – £1,500 (shared or studio apartment)
- Food: £250 – £400
- Transport: £150 – £200 (Oyster card for public transport)
- Utilities & Internet: £100 – £200
- Miscellaneous (entertainment, insurance, etc.): £200 – £300
- Total Estimate: £1,600 – £2,600 (covered by £2,365 stipend)
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This fellowship offers a unique platform to conduct independent research, engage with leading experts, and enhance your leadership skills within a globally recognized institution. It provides invaluable exposure to international policy discussions and the opportunity to expand your professional network.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is the fellowship open to applicants from all countries?
- Yes, the fellowship is open to individuals of all nationalities.
- Are there specific academic requirements to apply?
- Applicants must hold a completed BA degree or equivalent and have research experience.
- Can I undertake other work or study during the fellowship?
- Fellows are expected to commit full-time to the fellowship and should not engage in other work or studies concurrently.
- What support is provided for relocation to London?
- The fellowship covers reasonable relocation costs, including flights, accommodation, visas, and related expenses.
- How does the selection process work?
- After submitting your application, a selection committee reviews all submissions. Shortlisted candidates are invited for a Zoom interview, and successful applicants are notified via email.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official Chatham House website:
