Rowland Fellowship at Rowland Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, USA
About the Fellowship
The Rowland Fellowship at Harvard University offers a unique platform for outstanding early-career experimental scientists and engineers to initiate and lead independent research programs. Hosted at the Rowland Institute, this prestigious five-year fellowship emphasizes high-risk, high-reward experimental research that can transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries. Located in the intellectually vibrant environment of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the fellowship nurtures future leaders in science and technology, offering substantial funding, access to advanced facilities, and career development support within Harvard’s interdisciplinary ecosystem.
Fellowship Details
- Position: Rowland Fellow
- Institution: Harvard University
- Administering Body: Rowland Institute at Harvard
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Research Field: Experimental Sciences and Engineering
- Type: Full-time, Independent Research Fellowship (Postdoctoral Level)
- Duration: 5 years
- Start Date (Anticipated): Flexible between September–December 2026
- Working Hours: As per institutional norms
- Funding/Compensation:
- Annual salary starting at $89,999 USD with full Harvard benefits
- $225,000 USD/year for lab operations, travel, and hiring personnel
- Generous start-up funds for equipment
- Dedicated laboratory and ancillary research space
- Required Degree/Diploma: Ph.D. (completed after May 1, 2024, or expected before fellowship begins)
Research Areas Supported
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Engineering
- Materials Science
- Biophysics
- Interdisciplinary Experimental Sciences
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Ph.D. in a relevant field, awarded after May 1, 2024, or expected prior to start of fellowship
- Strong experimental research focus
- Open to applicants of all nationalities
Preferred Qualifications:
- Demonstrated potential for independent research leadership
- Strong publication record
- Interdisciplinary research vision
- Teaching or mentoring experience
Not Eligible:
- Candidates who earned their Ph.D. before May 1, 2024
- Candidates without a strong experimental component in their work
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Visa sponsorship for international fellows
- Competitive salary with annual increments
- Health insurance and full Harvard employee benefits
- Generous annual research budget and lab setup funds
- Access to shared Harvard facilities and staff engineers
- Opportunity to teach and mentor undergraduate students
- Mentorship and professional development support
- Leadership and lab management training
Key Responsibilities
- Establish and manage an independent research group
- Conduct high-impact experimental research
- Mentor and supervise junior researchers and students
- Engage with the Harvard research community through collaborations
- Present work at symposiums and publish research
- Teach or mentor undergraduate students in research environments
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application via Harvard’s online platform.
🔗 Application Portal
Required Documents:
- 250-word general audience elevator pitch
- Statement of Research (max 3 pages including references)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Vision Statement (1 page on lab culture and leadership)
- Contact information for 3–4 referees (automated letter request will be sent)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Spring 2025 (expected)
- Deadline: August 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM EDT
- Recommendation Letters Due: August 29, 2025
- Interview Period:
- Mid-October 2025: First-round Zoom interviews
- November 13–14, 2025: Finalist symposium and interviews at the Institute
Final Results Notification: Early December 2025
Start of Fellowship: September–December 2026 (flexible)
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://www.rowland.harvard.edu
- Fellowship/Job Posting:Harvard Academic Positions | Rowland Fellow
- Application Portal: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu
- 📧 Contact for Queries: rf@g.harvard.edu
