Are you a mid-career professional looking to elevate your impact on the global stage? The prestigious Richard & Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications. This fully funded, 10-month opportunity at Chatham House in London offers a unique platform to conduct independent research, develop critical leadership skills, and join a network of world-leading policy experts.
Based in the heart of the United Kingdom, Chatham House (the Royal Institute of International Affairs) is a globally respected policy institute. This international fellowship is designed for individuals from around the world who are ready to transform their expertise into tangible influence on international affairs. Whether your background is in academia, non-governmental organizations, government, business, or media, this program provides the resources and environment to advance your career while contributing to a more sustainable and just world.
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Richard & Susan Hayden Fellowship 2026 UK – Program Overview
This is more than a research opportunity; it’s a comprehensive professional development journey. The fellowship runs full-time from October 2026 to July 2027 and is structured to balance deep research with practical skill-building.
Your time is divided into three core components:
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Personal Research Project (60%): You will design and execute an independent research project with mentorship from a Chatham House expert, allowing you to explore a topic of your choice in depth.
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Research Collaboration (20%): You’ll actively contribute to your host team’s ongoing projects, integrating your work with Chatham House’s mission to address critical global challenges.
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Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%): This is a structured curriculum designed to hone your leadership, communication, and strategic skills.
Inside the Leadership Masterclass Programme
The leadership development aspect of the fellowship is a standout feature. It is designed to prepare you for senior roles and greater impact. Key elements include:
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Intensive Induction Week: A 5-day onboarding to connect you with your research team, understand the fellowship structure, and begin personal development coaching.
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Interactive Thematic Sessions: Engage in discussions on pressing global issues with Chatham House experts and external leaders.
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Practical Skills Workshops: Gain hands-on training in areas critical for policy influence, such as stakeholder mapping, crisis management, and negotiation.
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Leadership Briefings: Hear firsthand insights from current leaders in government, business, media, and civil society.
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Media Training: Prepare for public engagement with mock interviews and feedback to confidently represent your work to the media.
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Personal Development Coaching & Mentoring: Benefit from one-on-one coaching and optional career mentorship to guide your professional trajectory.
Scholarship Value / Inclusions for Richard & Susan Hayden Fellowship 2026 UK
The Richard & Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship is a fully funded program, ensuring you can focus entirely on your research and development without financial worry. The package includes:
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A monthly stipend of £2,365 to cover living expenses in London, including accommodation, food, and transport.
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Relocation costs: Reimbursement for travel to and from the UK, including flights or train fare, and three nights of accommodation for your arrival.
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UK Immigration Health Surcharge: Full coverage, granting you access to the National Health Service.
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Research and outreach expenses: Funding for fieldwork, travel to conferences, publication costs, and hosting events or roundtables.
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Eligibility Criteria?
This fellowship is intentionally inclusive, seeking diverse perspectives from around the globe. To be considered, you should:
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Hold a completed Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with demonstrated research experience.
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Be in the early to mid-stage of your career (no age restrictions apply).
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Have a professional background in academia, NGOs, government, media, business, or civil society.
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Possess a strong interest in international affairs and a clear commitment to contributing to global policy.
Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a demonstrated dedication to creating positive global impact.
Deadline & How to Apply for Richard & Susan Hayden Fellowship 2026 UK
The application window is currently open. All applications must be submitted by April 7, 2026. There is no application fee.
This is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s leading policy institutes, fully funded, for ten months. If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to meaningful global solutions, prepare your application today.
