The Weatherhead Research Cluster on Identity Politics welcomes applications for our grants from Harvard doctoral students whose research involves some aspect of “identity” politics, intergroup relations, and/or conflict. The cluster will award up to ten grants available for students who will actively participate in the cluster’s activities and advance its academic mission. Priority will be given to students who have not previously received funding through the cluster but prior awardees should feel free to apply again and continue to participate in the cluster.
This research cluster explores ethnic, religious, and other forms of identity-based politics as well as ways to improve intergroup relations in diverse settings by bringing together a network of scholars at different career stages from Harvard and other US- and globally based institutions who work on conflict, conflict resolution, and identity politics. Through workshops, seminars, and lectures, the cluster aims to establish lasting collaborations among researchers domestically and abroad that will forge innovative scholarship and draw on evidence from diverse global regions. Where relevant, the cluster also creates opportunities for scholars to translate their research into short, accessible, policy-oriented pieces and to engage
directly with representatives from relevant government agencies and civil society organizations to share and discuss their findings. Please note that affiliation and participation in cluster events is open to all graduate students, even those who have not received funding or previously were funded.
Awards and Benefits
The grants carry a stipend of $3,000.
Who Is Eligible
Harvard doctoral degree candidates in the Faculty for Arts and Sciences, or in one of the University’s professional schools.
Terms
Grantees will become affiliates of the cluster and must participate in cluster activities. This includes workshops and a small quantity of special lectures (exact commitment will be conveyed in your acceptance letter). Please keep in mind that you must be in-residence for the duration of the academic year. Cluster activities will be in-person, so it is essential that you can commute to attend. If you do not meet this requirement, please feel free to attend as many Cluster events as possible. Events are open to interested parties.
How to Apply
Applicants should see the requirements listed below before they submit their application.
The applicant must submit the following required documents:
- Research statement: A one-page description of a research project that includes what the grant money will be used for, the purpose of an individual’s work (motivation), and how the project pertains to the mission of the cluster.
- Curriculum vitae
- Letter of recommendation: One letter from a member of the Harvard faculty.
The Weatherhead Center uses an electronic application platform, the Centralized Application for Research and Travel (CARAT). Please read all the instructions on this page as well as in CARAT before beginning your application. Recommenders must upload their letters of recommendation for your application to CARAT. Applicants are encouraged to visit the GSAS Fellowships Office website for information on these grants and similar grants offered by other Harvard funding sources as well as helpful information on writing grant proposals and preparing applications.
Please allow two to three weeks before receiving a decision. If you have any questions, please email Max Calleo, identitypolitics@wcfia.harvard.edu.
Deadline
The deadline for the 2024-2025 application is July 1, 2024 at 11:59 pm EST.