Chatham House Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027: Full Guide to Apply

Are you an early-to-mid career professional passionate about international affairs? The Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027 offers a fully funded chance to spend 10 months in London advancing your expertise. Announced on March 24, 2026, this program draws from official Chatham House details. It supports individual research while building leadership skills. This guide covers eligibility requirements, remuneration and benefits, program structure including the Leadership Masterclass, and how to apply. Note the deadline: 7 April 2026.

Key Takeaways

• This 10-month fully funded fellowship in London targets early-to-mid career pros in international affairs with a personal research project and leadership training.
• Eligibility requires a BA or equivalent, research experience, and knowledge of global issues, but welcomes all nationalities with no age limits.
• Fellows get a £2,365 monthly stipend, relocation support, NHS access, research funding, and lifelong alumni benefits.
• The program splits time as 60% personal research, 20% team contributions, and 20% Leadership Masterclass; apply by April 7, 2026.

What is the Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027?

This fellowship partners with Richard and Susan Hayden. It targets early-to-mid career professionals. Fellows spend 10 months at Chatham House in London. They work on a personal research project in international affairs. They also join the institute’s core activities. A leadership program helps grow skills and networks.

The time splits into three main areas:

• 60% on a personal research project, designed with expert guidance
• 20% contributing to ongoing research with host teams
• 20% in the Leadership Masterclass Programme

For full details, check the official fellowship page.

Eligibility Requirements

Citizenship

The program welcomes applicants from all nationalities.

Education

Candidates need a completed BA degree or equivalent. They must have experience conducting research.

Career

Applicants should be at the early-to-mid career stage. They come from fields like academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, or media. All must show knowledge of international affairs, their research area, and Chatham House’s mission.

Age Restrictions

There are no age limits.

Duration

The fellowship runs 10 months, from October 2026 to July 2027.

Location

Fellows work full-time at Chatham House in London. Hybrid options exist.

Use this checklist to assess your fit:

• Hold a BA or equivalent
• Have research experience
• Work in a relevant field (academia, NGO, etc.)
• Know international affairs and Chatham House
• Available for 10 months in London (hybrid OK)
• Any nationality, no age limit

Requirement	Details	Why It Matters
Citizenship	All nationalities	Broadens global talent pool
Education	BA + research experience	Ensures research readiness
Career	Early-to-mid stage in key fields	Matches program focus on pros
Age	None	Includes diverse ages
Duration	Oct 2026–Jul 2027	Sets clear commitment
Location	London, hybrid possible	Centers on institute access

Remuneration and Benefits

Fellows receive a monthly stipend of £2,365. This amount covers living costs in London, such as accommodation, utilities, food, transport, and basics.

The Academy pays for:

• Relocation: flights, trains, visas, three nights’ accommodation, extra luggage
• UK’s Immigration Healthcare Surcharge: access to NHS (dental, optical, and some medicines not covered)
• Research and outreach: fieldwork, travel, conferences, publications, events

After completion, alumni gain:

• Access to Academy faculty and alumni
• Five-year Chatham House membership

Benefit Type	Details	Value to Fellow
Stipend	£2,365 monthly	Covers London living fully
Relocation	Flights, visas, etc.	Eases move to UK
Healthcare	NHS surcharge	Provides medical access
Research Costs	Fieldwork, events	Supports project success
Alumni Access	Faculty, 5-year membership	Builds lifelong network

Programme Structure

Personal Research Project (60%)

Fellows pick and design their own project. A Chatham House expert provides guidance. This forms the bulk of their time.

Ongoing Research Activities (20%)

Fellows join a host research team. They contribute to current priorities that align with the institute’s mission.

Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%)

This builds knowledge, networks, self-awareness, and leadership skills for future careers.

Activity	Time Allocation
Personal Research	60%
Ongoing Research	20%
Leadership Programme	20%

Leadership Masterclass Programme Details

Intensive Induction Week

Fellowships start with a five-day induction. Fellows meet their host team and get their first coaching session.

• Learn program elements
• Build early connections
• Set personal goals

Thematic Sessions

Fellows discuss global challenges with experts. They often chair these talks.

• Cover key topics in international affairs
• Build skills for leadership
• Share experiences with peers

Leadership Skills Workshops

Half-day sessions focus on core skills.

• Policy impact
• Stakeholder mapping
• Crisis management
• Negotiation

Leadership Briefings

Informal chats with leaders from government, business, media, and nonprofits.

• Hear leadership strategies
• Gain personal insights
• Faculty often speaks

Project Presentations

Fellows share research updates.

• Practice presentation skills
• Get peer feedback
• Explore other topics

Personal Development Coaching

One-on-one sessions boost self-awareness.

• Set development goals
• Track progress during fellowship
• Apply beyond program

Media Training

Build skills for TV and radio interviews.

• Practice techniques
• End with mock interview
• Receive style feedback

Career Mentoring (Optional)

Pair with a mentor for career advice.

• Gain new perspectives
• Support development
• Enhance career path

How to Apply for the Fellowship

Follow these steps to apply for the Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027:

1. Review eligibility and details on the official fellowship page. Check for updates.
2. Prepare a research proposal on an international affairs topic. Align it with Chatham House’s mission.
3. Gather documents like CV, references, and proof of education or research experience.
4. Submit everything by 7 April 2026 through the official link.

The Chatham House Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026/2027 gives early-to-mid career professionals a funded chance to grow in international affairs over 10 months in London. With strong benefits, a clear structure, and no strict limits on age or nationality, it builds skills and networks for your future. Check eligibility now and submit your application by April 7, 2026, to seize this opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions