Harvard Postdoctoral Fellowship for Future Faculty Leaders

Working within the Department of Astronomy, fellows will develop independent research and earn experience that will launch their careers as faculty leaders. This includes forming a vision of broad impact and preparing for success in the next levels of academic research. Fellows will benefit from access to our observational and computing facilities, mentoring in research and professional development from primary faculty sponsors, collaborations within the large community of CfA scientists, and opportunities for teaching and public outreach. This is a three­ year fellowship, with annual appointments contingent on satisfactory performance.

The Fellowship for Future Faculty Leaders (FFL) is part of an initiative to increase equity, diversity, and inclusion in research, teaching, and leadership in astronomy. We seek individuals who will develop and carry out an independent research program in astronomy, and whose research, educational, and mentorship activities will also contribute to increasing representation and inclusion in this field.

Online admissions materials and references are due before the deadline.

Please review the FAQ before beginning the online application.

The online application can be found at:

FELLOWSHIP APPLICATION LOGIN (external link)

Application Instructions & Required Materials

The following documents must be submitted in PDF.

1. Curriculum vitae (CV) 
2. Publications list 
3. Combined statement on research and broader impacts (6 pages total)

• Research statement
  • Full statement on prior and current research interests (single document)
• Broader impacts
  • Combined statement (single document) covering:
    • past teaching, mentoring and outreach activities;
    • plans for future activities in both scientific research and work that will increase the participation of traditionally underrepresented groups in astronomy through teaching, advising and/or mentoring;
    • and a list of potential host research groups at Harvard.

4. Two (2) letters of recommendation

• Email addresses for letter writers are required. Writers will receive a link via email to upload their letters in PDF directly to an application. 

* We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.

When is the deadline? 
Complete your application by 23:59 Eastern Time on Monday, January 2, 2024.

What is the term length for FFL? 
The fellowship is 3 years, renewed annually upon review.

How do I apply? 
Visit the Fellowship Application Page (external link)

Can I print the application form and mail it? 
Contact fflpostdoc@cfa.harvard.edu if you are unable to submit your application online.

Must I have already received my doctorate to apply? 
Applicants may apply in the final year of their doctoral program, but must be on track to satisfy all requirements of the degree before beginning the fellowship, including successfully defending one’s thesis. Applicants will need to provide verification of completing her or his doctorate.

If I am also applying for other fellowships at the CfA, do I need separate letters of recommendation sent for each fellowship, or will they be shared? 
All documents must be provided directly to the application for FFL. Letters of recommendation received for the FFL will not be shared among applications for other fellowships at the CfA and vice-versa.

What format is required for uploading files? 
All files must be in PDF.

Can I edit my application after submission? 
Yes. You may access your application until the deadline. All information and documents can be updated and replaced as needed until the deadline.

I want to withdraw my application. 
To withdraw your application, email fflpostdoc@cfa.harvard.edu stating your full name and any other relevant information.

Where can I get more information? I have questions that are not answered here. 
Direct any questions or report any issues to fflpostdoc@cfa.harvard.edu .