Robert A. Belfer International Affairs Fellowship in European Security 2026–2027

If you’re a U.S. mid-career professional with a passion for transatlantic relations and a vision for European security, here’s a fellowship that could change your career trajectory. The Robert A. Belfer International Affairs Fellowship (IAF) in European Security 2026–2027, administered by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), enables rising leaders to live and work in Europe—conducting policy research, building networks, and influencing discourse on defense, diplomacy, and security. Here's everything you need to know.

🎓 Fellowship Summary

• Location: Europe (host institutions such as think tanks, universities, government agencies, or international organizations)

• Sponsor: Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), supported by Robert A. Belfer

• Fellowship Level: Mid-career professional fellowship (non-degree, not pre/postdoctoral)

• Focus Areas: European security, defense policy, transatlantic relations, regional stability, arms control, alliance dynamics, emerging threats

• Value & Coverage:

  • Base stipend: US $120,000 for a full 12-month fellowship (prorated if shorter)

  • Modest travel grant (amount varies)

  • No indirect costs allowed; fellows work as independent contractors (no employment benefits)

• Duration: 4 to 12 months (flexible within this range)

• Application Deadline: October 31, 2025 

• Notification Date: Awardees typically notified by January 30, 2026 

• Cohort Size: Only 1 to 2 fellowships are granted annually for this track, making it extremely selective

  
  

🧭 Fellowship Overview

The Belfer IAF in European Security is structured to let fellows embed themselves in European policy, academic, or governmental institutions where they can engage closely with security issues facing the transatlantic relationship. CFR assists in identifying potential host matches, but the final decision belongs to the host institution.

The fellowship requires in-person commitment: fellows must expect to be on-site at least three days a week at their host organization, engaging in full-time work.

An important caveat: this fellowship does not support degree work (i.e. it's not for pursuing a PhD or master’s), and projects that are substantially underway before the fellowship begins are generally ineligible. The goal is to allow fellows to embark on new research or policy initiatives.

💲 Benefits & What’s Covered

• Generous stipend: Up to $120,000 for the 12-month duration (prorated for shorter terms)

• Travel support: A modest travel grant to help with relocation or travel between the U.S. and Europe

• Placement assistance: CFR helps propose and facilitate matching with a host institution aligned to your research focus

• Access and influence: Fellows gain direct exposure to European policy networks, cross-cultural engagement, and high-level discourse

• Career leverage: Because the fellowship stresses bridging policy and research, it can be leveraged to boost one’s influence, publications, and access to transatlantic platforms

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Belfer IAF in European Security, candidates must satisfy:

1. U.S. citizenship — only citizens are eligible

2. Mid-career professional status — significant experience and contributions in one’s field

3. Strong professional record — prior work, leadership, publications, or policy engagement

4. Bachelor’s degree (or higher) 

5. Valid U.S. passport extending at least six months beyond fellowship end date

6. Demonstrated interest in European security / transatlantic relations — proposal must focus on Europe or U.S.–Europe issues

7. New or fresh research direction — projects should not be heavily advanced before the fellowship begins

8. Preference for those without prior CFR fellowships or extensive European experience — the program favors fresh voices and those for whom this fellowship will be truly transformative

📝 Application Procedure

Here’s how to apply:

1. Open application window: Applications open September 15, 2025 and close October 31, 2025 

2. Submit online: Applications are accepted via CFR’s Application portal

3. Required materials typically include:

   • Biographical, educational, and employment history

   • A project proposal addressing a European security theme and suggested host placements

   • Two letters of support / recommendation

   • Relevant writing samples or prior publications

4. Review / interview: The selection committee evaluates proposals, may interview finalists, and then selects fellows

5. Notification: Awardees generally learn their result by January 30, 2026 

6. Fellowship period: Fellows embark on a 4–12 month full-time stay in Europe with their host institution

🔍 Selection & Evaluation

The fellowship is highly competitive. Selection is based on:

• The quality, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research on European security or transatlantic dynamics

• The scholarly and professional track record of the applicant — achievements, leadership, policy impact

• The benefits the fellowship will bring to the applicant’s career trajectory, enabling new directions or influence

• Character, cross-cultural adaptability, and potential to contribute to U.S.–Europe understanding

• Preference is often given to applicants who have not previously held a CFR fellowship and those who have not worked extensively in Europe already

Because only a very small number (1 or 2) of fellowships are awarded each cycle, competition is intense.

💡 Useful Tips & Considerations

• Aim for bold, timely research — topics such as security challenges in Eastern Europe, NATO strategies, hybrid warfare, energy security, defense technology, or EU defense integration may resonate.

• Suggested hosts should be plausible — pick think tanks, universities, or policy institutions in Europe that align with your topic.

• Show the added value of this fellowship — explain how immersion in Europe will change your perspective or open new research vistas.

• Select recommenders who understand security / policy work — they should speak to your capacity for cross-cultural and analytical engagement.

• Adhere strictly to deadlines and format guidelines — late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

• Leverage the prestige — as a Belfer IAF fellow, your network, publications, and institutional standing often grow significantly.

🔗 Apply Now

🔗 Official Website

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