The Kerry Initiative is an interdisciplinary program that focuses on pressing global challenges through teaching, research, practicums, conferences, and international dialogue.
The Kerry Initiative at the Jackson School of Global Affairs invites applications for the 2023-2024 class of Kerry Fellows.
Founded by former Secretary of State and now President Biden’s Presidential Climate Envoy John Kerry ’66, and today led by his longtime Chief of Staff David Wade and Sona Lim, who has been a major driver of the Kerry Initiative since its inception, the Kerry Initiative is an interdisciplinary program that focuses on pressing global challenges through teaching, research, practicums, conferences, and international dialogue.
Kerry Fellows work with the Kerry Initiative’s leadership team on key projects for the Initiative, including conducting research, developing virtual conversations and conferences on international topics, and helping write journal publications and social media content. Kerry Fellows receive career mentorship and coaching from many who have spent their lives at the highest levels of US foreign policy and in the international arena.
Kerry Fellows will be selected on the basis of outstanding academic and, if appropriate, professional achievement, with some priority given to interdisciplinary work in the core subjects on which the Kerry Initiative is focused: global climate change and oceans issues, democracy, failed and failing states , the challenge of authoritarian populism, America’s civilian security capacity, public diplomacy, technology in foreign policy, and economic opportunity and development. Fellows should have a strong interest in writing, history, and current affairs.
All incoming and current Yale students, including undergraduate, graduate and professional school students are eligible to apply. Fellows will be paid a stipend for each semester or summer work period.
Applications for the 2023-2024 cohort were due September 29, 2023.
Questions? Please e-mail Sona Lim at sona.lim@yale.edu.