Bajaj Visiting Fellowship at Harvard University

About the Fellowship

The Jamnalal Kaniram Bajaj Visiting Research Fellowship at Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences offers an exceptional opportunity for scholars to conduct independent research while engaging with the vibrant academic community of the Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute. Designed to foster cross-regional and interdisciplinary collaboration, this fellowship supports scholars working on South Asia-related research themes. Fellows will benefit from access to Harvard’s extensive academic resources, mentorship from distinguished faculty, and participation in seminars and collaborative projects. The programme aims to promote high-impact scholarship, strengthen research ties between South Asia and Harvard, and contribute to global understanding of South Asian issues through rigorous academic inquiry.

Fellowship Details

Position Title: Jamnalal Kaniram Bajaj Visiting Research Fellowship AY 2026–2027
Host Institution: Harvard University – Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Administering Body / Funding Agency: Lakshmi Mittal and Family South Asia Institute
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Research Field(s): South Asian Studies, Interdisciplinary Humanities and Social Sciences
Fellowship Type: Visiting Research Fellowship (Academic Semester Appointment)
Level: Mid-career or Early-career Scholars
Fellowship Duration: One academic semester (Fall 2026)
Expected Start Date: September 2026
Working Hours: Full-time, as per Harvard University academic norms
Funding/Compensation: USD 67,600 per annum (prorated for shorter appointments)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD in a relevant discipline

Supported Research Fields / Areas

South Asian Studies
History, Politics, and Culture of India
Interdisciplinary Humanities and Social Sciences

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Applicants must hold a PhD at the time of application.
Scholars primarily educated at institutions in South Asia will be prioritised.
Preference will be given to scholars whose research focuses on India or South Asian contexts.

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated research excellence and publication record.
Experience mentoring graduate students or participating in academic collaborations.
Strong alignment with the research themes of the Mittal Institute.

Not Eligible:

Scholars who have previously had substantial research opportunities at Harvard University.

Fellowship / Job Benefits

Monthly stipend or salary: USD 67,600 annually (pro-rated for semester term)
Access to Harvard’s academic and research facilities
Opportunities to collaborate with faculty and fellows at the Mittal Institute
Participation in seminars, workshops, and institutional projects
Academic mentorship by a Harvard faculty member
Platform to present research findings through a seminar at the end of the fellowship

Key Responsibilities

Conduct independent research in collaboration with a Harvard faculty mentor.
Present research findings in a Mittal Institute seminar at the end of the term.
Participate in grant and fellowship reviews.
Mentor graduate students and contribute to institutional events and projects.