Harris Social Impact Fellowship - STEM Pathway

The Harris Social Impact Fellowship is a highly-selective, full-time, 11-month program for recent graduates and early career professionals with strong STEM skills and a passion for evidence-based change. Designed by University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy faculty, the fellowship blends intensive training in policy analysis, critical reasoning, and data science with a hands-on placement at a top research center or policy institute. Applications are now open for the cohort beginning in July of 2027. 

Fellows begin with eight weeks of academic coursework followed by nine months tackling urgent issues like educational equity, climate action, and public safety. The experience culminates in a capstone project addressing a real-world policy challenge.

Throughout the program, fellows receive professional development, mentorship from policy leaders, and access to an unmatched network of faculty, alumni, and practitioners. Fellows emerge with the skills, momentum, and a defining career experience to advance data-driven change across public, private, and social sectors.

Fellowship Stipend:  

• $75k stipend for living and healthcare expenses
• $21k to fully cover the fellowship academic credential

Program Includes:

• 8 weeks of intensive, faculty-led coursework in data analytics, economic analysis, and analytical politics at the University of Chicago
• 9-months of immersive learning with leading research centers and policy institutes tackling issues like education, public safety, health equity, and climate change
• Capstone project and showcase presentation
• Ongoing mentorship and professional development
• A cohort experience that fosters collaboration, peer learning, and long-term professional connections

Candidate Eligibility:

• STEM major, minor, or demonstrated capacity for serious technical, quantitative, or analytical work - e.g., through coursework, research, or work experience
• Recent college graduate (class of 2027) or early-career professional (bachelor’s degree must be conferred prior to the start of the fellowship)
• The University of Chicago cannot sponsor visas in connection with this program. If the candidate is a U.S. visa holder, they are responsible for confirming whether participation in this program fits within the parameters of their current visa status. Please note that the Fellowship does not qualify for the STEM OPT extension. 

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