The Rowland Fellowship at Harvard University allows early-career experimentalists to establish independent research groups within a collaborative environment. The Rowland Institute at Harvard offers the Rowland Fellowship to exceptional early-career experimentalists across all fields of science and engineering. This fellowship provides the opportunity to lead an independent research program in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The fellowship spans up to five years, with flexible start dates between September and December 2026.
Founded by Edwin Land in 1980, the Institute became part of Harvard in 2002 and relocated to the main campus in 2024 to foster closer collaboration. The Rowland Fellowship at Harvard University supports high-risk, interdisciplinary research, and past fellows have gone on to successful careers in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. The application cycle opens in May 2025, and the deadline is 15 August 2025.
University/Institution Details
- Name: Harvard University
- Institute: Rowland Institute at Harvard
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Global Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide
- Programs: Rowland Fellows Program
- Duration: Up to 5 years
Study Areas
The fellowship supports experimental research in all fields of science and engineering, including but not limited to:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Interdisciplinary sciences
Rowland Fellowship at Harvard University Benefits
- Annual research budget starting at $225,000 for supplies, travel, and personnel (e.g., postdocs, undergraduates).
- Annual salary starting at $89,999 with full Harvard benefits.
- Opportunity to teach undergraduates in a research-based setting.
- Full Principal Investigator (PI) rights and the opportunity to establish an independent lab.
- Located in Cambridge, MA, within a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
- Dedicated lab space, plus access to shared and ancillary facilities (e.g., cell culture, magnet rooms).
- Generous start-up funding for capital equipment based on research needs.
- Access to staff scientists and engineers for experimental setup and fabrication.
- Use of shared research equipment at Harvard facilities (e.g., Center for Nanoscale Systems).
- Mentorship and support in lab management, scientific writing, budgeting, and leadership training.
- Duration of up to 5 years, with flexible start dates between September–December 2026.
Benefits Not Included
- Relocation expenses
- Visa application fees (though assistance is provided)
- Personal living expenses beyond the provided salary
Eligibility Criteria for Rowland Fellowship at Harvard University
- Must have received or be completing a PhD after May 1, 2024.
- PhD must be completed before fellowship start in late 2026.
- Experimental research focus in any science or engineering field (e.g., physics, biology, chemistry, neuroscience).
- Human subjects or clinical research is not allowed due to shared lab spaces.
- Open to applicants from any accredited institution worldwide.
- Both U.S. citizens and international applicants are eligible.
- Visa assistance is available through Harvard if needed.
- For eligibility questions, contact: rf@g.harvard.edu.
Required Documents
- 250-word “elevator pitch” (general audience summary of your research goals)
- Statement of Research (max 3 pages, including references)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page Vision Statement (lab culture, values, academic experience)
- Contact info for 3–4 referees (automated emails will request recommendation letters)
Rowland Fellowship at Harvard University Application Process
- Apply only via: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/14923
- Reference Letters: Automated requests will be sent to referees upon application submission.
- Reference letter deadline: August 29, 2025
- Applications can be saved and updated before submission
- Once submitted, materials are locked unless reactivation is requested via email
- Declare any AI tool usage and explain its role (AI use should not replace original work or personal voice
- Mid-September: Ineligible applicants notified
- Mid-October: Zoom interviews for selected candidates
- November 13–14, 2025: Finalist visit, research presentation, and interviews
- Early December 2025: Final decisions announced
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing your application materials well in advance to ensure quality and completeness.
- Tailor Your Proposal: Align your research proposal with the fellowship’s emphasis on experimental and interdisciplinary work.
- Highlight Independence: Demonstrate your capability to lead an independent research program.
- Engage Referees: Choose referees who can provide strong, personalized recommendations and inform them early about your application.
- Reflect in Vision Statement: Provide thoughtful insights into how your experiences will shape your lab culture.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
Living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, can be relatively expensive. Estimated monthly expenses include:
- Housing: $1,500 – $2,500
- Utilities and Internet: $150 – $250
- Food: $400 – $700
- Transportation: $100 – $200
- Miscellaneous: $200 – $400
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: $2,350 – $4,050
The fellowship’s salary is designed to cover these living costs, but budgeting is essential.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
- Lead Independent Research: Establish your own lab with full principal investigator (PI) rights in a collaborative environment.
- Generous Funding: Receive a starting annual budget of $225,000 for operations and a salary beginning at $89,999 with full Harvard benefits.
- Dedicated Lab Space: Access to specialized facilities and support from staff scientists and engineers.
- Mentorship and Development: Benefit from guidance in lab management, scientific writing, budgeting, and career development.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engage with a vibrant scientific community at Harvard and the broader Cambridge area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible to apply?
Early-career experimentalists who have completed their PhD after May 1, 2024, or are in the process of completing it. - What disciplines are supported?
All experimental fields of science and engineering, including physics, chemistry, biology, neuroscience, and engineering. - Are international applicants eligible?
Yes, the fellowship is open to both U.S. and international candidates. - What is the duration of the fellowship?
Up to five years, with flexible start dates between September and December 2026. - What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by August 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM EDT.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, please visit the official Rowland Institute fellowship page:
