Harvard University’s Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture (AKPIA) is inviting applications for its prestigious Postdoctoral Fellow / Visiting Scholar Program for the 2025–2026 academic year. This fully funded research fellowship is an excellent opportunity for recent PhD graduates and mid-career academics engaged in advanced scholarship related to Islamic art, architecture, archaeology, and material culture.

This fellowship fosters innovative research in historical and contemporary contexts of Islamic aesthetics and built environments. Scholars will join a vibrant academic community, collaborate with esteemed faculty, and contribute to ongoing projects at Harvard University.

Key Fellowship Details

• Institution: Harvard University, History of Art and Architecture Department
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts (residency required)
• Duration: At least 3 months (ranging from September to May), up to 12 months
• Funding: Minimum monthly stipend of $5,633.33 (before tax) (pending final budget approval)
• Research Contribution: A final presentation and a submission to the Muqarnas journal

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the AKPIA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025, applicants must:

• Hold a Doctorate in Islamic Art History, Architectural History, Archaeology, or a related field
• Have experience in Islamic Art History research (e.g., teaching, museum work, publications)
• Demonstrate proficiency in English (written and spoken)
• Be able to reside in Cambridge, MA for the duration of the fellowship

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Letter of introduction
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Research Statement (with proposed research timeline)
• Two writing samples
• Names and contact details of two references

Key Benefits

Fellows will gain access to Harvard’s extensive academic resources, including:

• Complete access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and research facilities
• Engagement in departmental activities and symposiums
• Opportunity to attend Harvard courses (without receiving credit, subject to approval)
• Collaboration with faculty, students, and visiting academics within the AKPIA community

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official application portal and submit their application before the deadline:
Apply Here

FAQs

1. Who is eligible to apply?
Scholars with a Doctorate in Islamic Art, Architecture, or related disciplines who can commit to the residency requirement in Cambridge, MA.

2. What does the stipend cover?
The stipend covers living expenses, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their research.

3. What is the expected research outcome?
Fellows are required to deliver a final presentation and contribute a research article to the Muqarnas journal.

Final Thoughts: A Transformative Opportunity for Scholars

The AKPIA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 at Harvard University provides a unique platform for scholars to advance their research in Islamic Art and Architecture. With full financial support, access to Harvard’s world-class resources, and an opportunity to contribute to academic discourse, this fellowship is a remarkable opportunity to enhance your scholarly career. Apply today and become part of Harvard’s esteemed research community!