The Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Program was founded at Radcliffe College in 1960 as the Radcliffe Institute for Independent Study. In 1978 the Institute was renamed the Mary Ingraham Bunting Institute to honor Radcliffe College President Mary Bunting whose initiative it was to create a postgraduate study center for female scholars and artists. Concerned about the prevailing "climate of unexpectation" for women at that time, Bunting deliberately sought to reverse that negative attitude by establishing the essential gifts of an Institute fellowship: time, financial support, a room of one's own, membership in a vital community of women, and access to all Radcliffe and Harvard resources.
The Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Program is a scholarly community where individuals pursue advanced work across a wide range of academic disciplines, professions, and creative arts. Radcliffe Institute fellowships are designed to support scholars, scientists, artists, and writers of exceptional promise and demonstrated accomplishment who wish to pursue work in academic and professional fields and in the creative arts. In recognition of Radcliffe's historic contributions to the education of women and to the study of issues related to women, the Radcliffe Institute sustains a continuing commitment to the study of women, gender, and society. Applicants' projects need not focus on gender, however. Women and men from across the United States and throughout the world, including developing countries, are encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
Former fellows of the Radcliffe Institute Fellowship Program (1999 to present) are not eligible to apply.
Each application is reviewed in a dual-tiered process by peers in relevant disciplines. Applications are judged on the quality and significance of the proposed project and the applicant's record of achievement and promise. Applicants are notified by e-mail of the results of the selection process in March.
Terms and Conditions
Stipends are funded up to $65,000 for one year with additional funds for project expenses. Some support for relocation expenses is provided where relevant. If so directed, Radcliffe will pay the stipend to the fellow's home institution.
We work with fellows who have families to help with relocation issues and make for a smooth transition.
