Exploratory Seminar Program
Harvard's Radcliffe Exploratory Seminar Program funds interdisciplinary, in-person seminars to collaboratively develop early-stage, innovative research ideas in a supportive, risk-taking environment.
Funder: Harvard University
Due Dates (Anticipated): August 2026 (application submission deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Supports one- to two-day, invitation-only, in-person seminars for 12–16 participants; award covers travel, lodging, meals, and meeting costs.
Summary: Funds interdisciplinary groups to collaboratively explore and refine early-stage, innovative ideas in a supportive, risk-taking environment.
Key Information: Lead applicants must be Harvard ladder faculty or current/former Radcliffe fellows; seminars are held on campus and are not open to the public.
Description
The Exploratory Seminar Program at Harvard University's Radcliffe Institute supports interdisciplinary collaboration among scholars, practitioners, and artists to explore early-stage research ideas. The program is designed to foster intellectual risk-taking and experimentation, providing a structured environment for participants to test, discuss, and refine emerging concepts. Seminars are typically one- to two-day, invitation-only events held in person at the Radcliffe Institute campus, bringing together 12–16 participants. The goal is to spark new research directions that may lead to future projects, publications, performances, or other innovative outcomes. Proposals from all disciplines are welcome, with special interest in topics related to climate change, academic freedom, public policy, social issues, and women, gender, and society.
