The Carr-Ryan Center for Human Rights invites applications for the inaugural LGBTQI+ Student Leadership Fellowship, a competitive fellowship for current Harvard University graduate students working on issues and topics related to LGBTQI+ peoples and their rights.
Applications for the 2026 cycle are now closed.
Fellowship Tracks
Applicants may apply to one of the following tracks:
Supports a dedicated research project on issues and topics related to LGBTQI+ peoples and their rights. Applicants must propose a clearly defined project with a concrete, high-quality deliverable, such as a publishable scholarly paper, policy report, or conference presentation. Proposals should demonstrate rigor, feasibility, and a clear plan for the use of funds.
Provides funding for at least eight weeks of full-time Summer 2026 internship work with an organization engaged in LGBTQI+ rights, policy, advocacy, or research. Funds may be used to support living expenses, travel, or other costs that enable participation. Applicants should identify a specific organization and describe a well-defined internship plan.
Co-Curricular Programming
Fellows will participate in a small cohort experience through the Global LGBTQI+ Human Rights Program, including up to three dinner convenings between February and August 2026. Programming will be led by Dr. Timothy Patrick McCarthy, Lecturer on Education and Public Policy and Faculty Chair of the Global LGBTQI+ Human Rights Program, and will focus on professional reflection, careers in the field, and deeper engagement with the Program’s work.
Eligibility
Open to current Harvard University graduate students (all schools eligible)
Research track applicants must be enrolled as a full-time student for at least the spring 2026 semester, and summer internship applicants must be enrolled as a full-time student for at least the Fall 2026 semester at Harvard.
Application Materials
Applicants must submit:
- Resume or CV
- Statement of interest describing the work to be funded
- Budget for the proposed work
- Supporting materials, as applicable (e.g., research proposal, writing sample, or internship confirmation)