No application fee – Fully funded fellowship in the UK. The applications are now open for the Richard & Susan Hayden Fellowship 2026 in London, UK. It is a Fully Funded International Fellowship for ten Months at Chatham House, London, and is open to nationals from around the world. The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship is for candidates who are in the mid-stage of their career working in academia, NGOs, business, government departments, civil society, or the media. During the 10 months, participants will conduct in-depth research on a topic of their choice. More details are below.
Quick Summary
Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs, is a world-leading independent policy institute based in London. Our mission is to help build a sustainably secure, prosperous, and just world.
The Hayden Academy Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded international program at Chatham House in London. It offers a 10-month opportunity for professionals to conduct research, develop leadership skills, and engage in global policy work.
Fellowship Details
- Host Organization: Chatham House (Royal Institute of International Affairs)
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Duration: 10 Months (October 2026 to July 2027)
- Program Type: Fellowship (Full-time)
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 7th April 2026
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What are the Benefits?
- The fellow receives a monthly stipend of £2,365, which covers London living costs, including accommodation, utilities, food, transport, and other basic expenses.
- The Academy covers reasonable costs related to:
- Relocation, e.g., flights, train, other transportation to and from the UK, three nights of accommodation, visas, extra cases or boxes, etc.
- Payment of the UK’s Immigration Healthcare Surcharge which allows access to the UK National Health Service (Note: you may be required to pay for dental and optical treatments and medicines prescribed by a doctor); and
- Research, outreach, and dissemination costs, e.g., fieldwork, travel, conferences, publication, roundtables, events, etc.
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About the Fellowship
The fellowship allows participants to:
- Conduct an independent research project
- Contribute to ongoing research at Chatham House
- Participate in leadership development programs.
Fellowship Structure & Benefits
The Chatham House Hayden Fellowship is designed to provide a balanced experience combining research, collaboration, and leadership development.
A fellow’s time is divided into three main components:
- Personal Research Project (60%)
Fellows design and complete an independent research project under the guidance of a Chatham House expert. - Research Collaboration (20%)
Fellows contribute to ongoing research activities and support their host team in line with Chatham House’s mission. - Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%)
A structured program focused on developing leadership skills, global understanding, and professional growth.
Leadership Masterclass Programme
All fellows participate in a comprehensive leadership development program that includes:
- Intensive Induction Week
A 5-day onboarding program introducing fellows to their research teams, fellowship structure, and personal development coaching. - Thematic Sessions
Interactive discussions on global challenges with experts from Chatham House and beyond. - Leadership Skills Workshops
Practical workshops covering:- Policy impact
- Stakeholder mapping
- Crisis management
- Negotiation skills
- Leadership Briefings
Sessions with global leaders from government, business, media, and NGOs sharing real-world insights. - Project Presentations
Fellows present their research progress, improving presentation and analytical skills. - Personal Development Coaching
One-on-one coaching sessions to enhance self-awareness and leadership capabilities. - Media Training
Training for TV and radio interviews, including mock sessions with feedback. - Career Mentoring (Optional)
Mentorship opportunities to guide career growth and professional direction.
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Who can apply?
- Open to all nationalities.
- Applicants must hold a completed BA degree or equivalent and have experience with conducting research.
- Early to mid-career professionals
- Background in academia, NGO, government, media, or business
- Strong interest in international affairs
- No age restriction.
Selection Criteria
Candidates are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to global impact.
How to Apply for the Richard & Susan Hayden Fellowship 2026?
Apply Now for Chatham House Hayden Fellowship
