2026–2027 Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship: Fully Funded Opportunity for Emerging Women, Peace and Security Researchers

The Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS) has announced applications for the prestigious 2026–2027 Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship, a highly competitive one-year fellowship designed to support emerging scholars and researchers working at the intersection of gender, peace, security, and international affairs.

This unique fellowship offers recent Master’s and PhD graduates, as well as final-semester graduate students, the opportunity to conduct rigorous, policy-oriented research that addresses critical knowledge gaps within the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) field. The fellowship is hosted by the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, one of the world’s leading institutions dedicated to advancing women’s leadership and participation in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and global security.

For aspiring researchers seeking to influence policy, contribute to global peacebuilding efforts, and develop expertise in gender-responsive security frameworks, this fellowship represents an exceptional opportunity.

About the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS)

The Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security is a renowned institution based in Washington, D.C., dedicated to promoting a more peaceful, equitable, and just world through research, policy engagement, and advocacy.

GIWPS works to:

• Advance the role of women in peace and security processes.
• Generate evidence-based research on gender and conflict.
• Influence national and international policy.
• Strengthen global understanding of the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
• Support initiatives that prevent conflict and foster sustainable peace.

Through its research and policy work, the institute collaborates with governments, international organizations, academics, civil society organizations, and development practitioners around the world.

About the Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship

The Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship is a one-year research program created to support emerging scholars who are committed to advancing knowledge and policy solutions related to Women, Peace and Security.

The fellowship provides participants with the opportunity to:

• Conduct high-quality policy-oriented research.
• Address significant evidence and knowledge gaps in the WPS field.
• Contribute to research that informs decision-makers and policymakers.
• Work within a leading international research institute.
• Engage with experts, practitioners, and policymakers.
• Strengthen their professional and academic careers.

The fellowship reflects the commitment of GIWPS to advancing evidence-based solutions that promote gender equality, peacebuilding, and security worldwide.

Research Focus Areas

Selected fellows will conduct research related to Women, Peace and Security (WPS), with emphasis on addressing pressing policy questions and generating actionable insights.

Potential areas of interest may include:

1. Gender and Conflict

Research examining how armed conflict affects women and girls, including:

• Gender-based violence
• Displacement and migration
• Protection challenges
• Women’s resilience during crises

2. Women’s Leadership in Peacebuilding

Studies exploring:

• Women’s participation in peace negotiations
• Inclusive governance
• Community peacebuilding initiatives
• Leadership development

3. Security and International Policy

Research focusing on:

• National security frameworks
• International peace and security policies
• Global governance mechanisms
• Women’s inclusion in security institutions

4. Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings

Research investigating:

• State fragility
• Humanitarian crises
• Recovery and reconstruction
• Social cohesion and resilience

5. Women, Peace and Security Policy Frameworks

Analysis of:

• National Action Plans on WPS
• International commitments
• United Nations frameworks
• Regional security initiatives

Benefits of the Fellowship

The Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship offers numerous professional and academic advantages.

Research Opportunities

Fellows will:

• Conduct meaningful and impactful research.
• Contribute to policy discussions.
• Develop expertise in Women, Peace and Security.

Professional Development

Participants can:

• Build relationships with leading scholars and practitioners.
• Gain exposure to policymaking processes.
• Enhance research and analytical skills.

Career Advancement

The fellowship can help participants:

• Strengthen academic credentials.
• Expand professional networks.
• Increase competitiveness for future academic, policy, and international development positions.

Access to a Global Network

Fellows will become part of a community of experts working to advance peace, security, and gender equality worldwide.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for individuals who are passionate about:

• Gender equality
• Peacebuilding
• International security
• Human rights
• Conflict prevention
• Evidence-based policymaking
• International development

Candidates should possess strong research abilities and a commitment to producing work that can influence policy and practice.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the 2026–2027 Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Academic Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be in the final semester of an advanced degree program (Master’s or PhD), OR
• Have completed an advanced degree within the previous three years.

Knowledge Requirements

Applicants should have:

• Working knowledge of the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
• Familiarity with relevant U.S. and international policy frameworks.

Professional and Academic Background

Candidates should demonstrate experience or academic training related to:

• Gender studies
• International affairs
• Peace and conflict studies
• Security studies
• Development studies
• Related disciplines

Particular interest is given to individuals whose work focuses on conflict-affected and fragile settings.

GIWPS Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security strongly values diversity, equity, and inclusion.

GIWPS believes that diverse perspectives strengthen efforts to create a more peaceful, equitable, and just world. The institute welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and actively encourages diverse candidates to apply.

The organization maintains a strong commitment to:

• Equity
• Inclusion
• Respect
• Representation
• Diversity of experiences and perspectives

GIWPS does not discriminate based on:

• Race
• Ethnicity
• National origin
• Gender identity and expression
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Age
• Religious beliefs
• Socioeconomic status
• Other protected identities

The institute emphasizes creating an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Women, Peace and Security agenda has become increasingly important in addressing modern global challenges. Conflicts, humanitarian crises, and fragile governance systems continue to disproportionately affect women and girls worldwide.

The Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship provides emerging researchers with a platform to generate evidence that can help shape policies, improve outcomes for vulnerable populations, and strengthen peacebuilding efforts globally.

By supporting innovative and policy-relevant research, the fellowship contributes to a growing body of knowledge that informs governments, international organizations, and civil society actors working toward sustainable peace and gender equality.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should visit the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security careers page and locate the 2026–2027 Hillary Rodham Clinton Research Fellowship application.

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review all application requirements and submit their materials before the application window closes.

Application Link: https://giwps.georgetown.edu/about/careers/

Institution: Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS)

Location: Washington, D.C., United States

Duration: One Year

Deadline: Not specified

Apply here 

 

Learn More

• For more information about this opportunity, Click here

• More global Fellowship opportunities for youth, visit the OFY website: Click here