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The Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship 2026-2027 is now accepting applications from researchers, journalists, academics, and policy experts working on Russia and the broader Eurasia region. This six-month virtual fellowship offers participants financial support, mentorship, professional networking opportunities, and a platform to publish research for policymakers and the general public.
The fellowship is organized by the Kennan Institute, a program of the Wilson Center, and is supported by the Lounsbery Foundation and the U.S.-Russia Foundation. Unlike traditional research fellowships, this program is conducted entirely online, allowing fellows from different countries to participate without relocating. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of $2,000 while carrying out independent research between October 2026 and March 2027.
The Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship aims to strengthen research on Russia, Eurasia, and related policy issues while rebuilding academic exchange between researchers from different regions. Fellows will join an international cohort, attend monthly virtual meetings, receive expert guidance, and publish research designed for a wider audience.
WhatsApp ChannelOverview of the Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship 2026-2027
- Host Organization: Kennan Institute (Wilson Center)
- Supported By: Lounsbery Foundation and U.S. Russia Foundation
- Mode: Online
- Program Type: Virtual Research Fellowship
- Duration: 6 Months
- Fellowship Period: October 2026 to March 2027
- Number of Fellowships: 10
- Monthly Stipend: $2,000
- Application Deadline: August 14, 2026 (5:00 PM EST)
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Financial Benefits
Selected fellows will receive several benefits throughout the fellowship period, including:
- Monthly stipend of $2,000 for six months
- Mentorship from Kennan Institute experts
- Six virtual webinars with the fellowship cohort
- Opportunities to receive professional feedback on research
- Editorial support for publishing research
- Access to the Kennan Institute’s international network
- Membership in the Kennan alumni network with more than 4,500 members worldwide
- Opportunities to connect with researchers, journalists, and policy professionals
Since the fellowship is completely virtual, travel costs, visas, and relocation expenses are not provided.
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Fellowship Objectives
The Digital Fellowship is designed to support high-quality research related to Russia and Eurasia while helping fellows communicate their work beyond academia.
The program focuses on:
- Supporting policy-relevant research
- Encouraging original non-fiction writing
- Building collaboration among international researchers
- Expanding professional networks
- Promoting public understanding of Russia and Eurasian studies
- Providing opportunities to publish research for wider audiences
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Research Areas
Applicants may submit research proposals related to Russia, the former Soviet Union, or broader Eurasia. The fellowship welcomes projects from different disciplines.
Examples include:
- International relations
- Political science
- Public policy
- History
- Economics
- Society and culture
- Journalism
- Security studies
- Technology
- Natural sciences
- Medicine
- Environmental studies
- Regional development
- Law
- Ocean and Arctic policy
- Digital governance
- Other interdisciplinary topics connected to Russia and Eurasia
At least four fellowship positions are reserved for researchers working in:
- Natural sciences
- Medicine
- Technology
- Related scientific disciplines
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Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship 2026-2027, applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Be a researcher, academic, journalist, or expert working on Russia and/or broader Eurasia.
- Have several years of professional or research experience related to the proposed topic.
- Demonstrate a good working knowledge of English.
- Submit an original research proposal.
- Be available to participate virtually throughout the six-month fellowship.
- Be prepared to publish at least one public-facing piece during the fellowship.
The fellowship welcomes applicants from different countries.
Research Proposal Requirements
Applicants must submit a research proposal of no more than three pages.
The proposal should include:
- Previous experience related to the research topic
- Scope of the proposed research
- Research methodology
- Expected outcomes
- Preferred final format, such as:
- Research article
- Policy paper
- Multimedia project
- Documentary or short film
- Digital exhibit
- Other public-facing formats
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Research proposal (maximum three pages)
During the application process, applicants will also indicate whether the proposed project is a continuation of previous research or represents a new area of study.
Fellowship Timeline
- Application Deadline: August 14, 2026
- Selection Process: After application review
- Program Starts: October 2026
- Program Ends: March 2027
Throughout the fellowship, participants will attend monthly virtual meetings, collaborate with experts, receive mentoring, and develop research for publication.
How to Apply?
Applicants must complete the online application form available on the Kennan Institute website before August 14, 2026 (5:00 PM EST).
During the application process, applicants must upload their CV and research proposal and complete all required application fields. Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kennan Institute Digital Fellowship fully funded?
The fellowship provides a monthly stipend of $2,000 for six months along with mentoring, webinars, and networking opportunities. However, it does not cover travel because the program is conducted entirely online.
Is the fellowship virtual?
Yes. The entire fellowship takes place online, allowing participants to conduct research from their country of residence.
Who can apply?
Researchers, academics, journalists, and professionals with several years of experience studying Russia or the broader Eurasia region are eligible to apply.
How many fellowships are available?
The Kennan Institute will award 10 Digital Fellowships, with at least four reserved for applicants working in natural sciences, medicine, technology, or related fields.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to submit applications is August 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST.
