James C. Gaither Junior Fellowships at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Endorsement Application Deadline: November 18, 2025
Each year the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace offers approximately fourteen 10-12 month fellowships to uniquely qualified graduating seniors and individuals who have graduated during the past academic year. Junior Fellows provide research assistance to senior associates working on the Carnegie Endowment’s projects. Junior Fellows conduct research for books, co-author journal articles and policy papers, participate in meetings with high-level officials, contribute to congressional testimony and organize briefings attended by scholars, journalists and government officials. Harvard University nomination is required.
- Graduating Harvard College senior, or graduated within one year of application
- Not ever enrolled in graduate study
- Open to students with visas with eligibility to work in the U.S
- $47,000 salary
- Full benefits
Applications are judged on the quality of the writing sample, personal statement, academic excellence and related academic study and/or work experience, grades, recommendations.
The selection committee endorses two applicants in November. Endorsed applicants submit an application to the Carnegie Endowment for Peace. Finalists are notified and interview in March. Awards are made shortly thereafter.
Apply via the Harvard University Funding Portal. Harvard College seniors should log in with HarvardKey. Eligible Harvard College graduates without HarvardKey must create a non-HU log in. Once logged in, filter the “Institution” field for “Harvard College (students only).” Select “James C. Gaither Junior Fellows Program.”
Prepare in advance the following materials:
- Resume: Indicate significant activities, achievements, and experiences in college that demonstrate your values and trajectory. Do not exceed two pages.
- Unofficial transcript: Download your unofficial transcript from my.harvard.edu, it should include your spring course grades and fall course registration.
- Personal statement: Discuss why you are applying for this job, what you hope to learn from it, how you think your experience and working style would serve you well as a research assistant, and why you have chosen to apply for the program you are applying for. Include your name and “personal statement” at the top of the page. Maximum 2 pages, double-spaced, 12 pt font.
- Writing sample introduction: Explain why you have chosen to submit your selected writing sample. Maximum ½ page, double-spaced, 12pt font.
- Writing sample: This sample can be a full-length piece or an excerpt on any topic. It is recommended that you choose a writing sample that is relevant to the Carnegie Program you are applying for, either in subject matter or style of analysis. Minimum 3 pages, maximum 5 pages, double-spaced, 12 pt font. A works cited page is not required. In-text citations (footnotes/endnotes or parenthetical) should be included with the writing sample.
- Two letters of recommendation: Letters should comment on the suitability of your becoming a Carnegie Endowment Junior Fellow, analytical and writing skills, self-discipline and maturity, and, where relevant, subject matter expertise. Letters should be addressed to “Carnegie Endowment Junior Fellowships Selection Committee.” Submit your request to recommenders to submit their letters within the portal at least 1 week in advance of the due date. Letters and all other components are due at the same time.
If you or your recommenders have questions about this application or the online submission process, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships via fellowships@fas.harvard.edu