Penn Project on the Future of U.S –China Relations — Call for Fellowship Applications 2026

Are you an emerging scholar, policy analyst, or expert passionate about shaping the future of U.S.–China relations and influencing global policy? The 2026 Penn Project on the Future of U.S.–China Relations is now accepting applications for its prestigious Fourth Fellowship Cohort — and this could be your chance to make a real impact.

2026 Fellowship Overview — What You Need to Know

The Penn Project on the Future of U.S.–China Relations is a competitive fellowship initiative hosted by the University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Global office that brings together rising experts to develop academically-informed, policy-relevant recommendations on key issues shaping U.S.–China dynamics.

Fellowship Focus Areas

Selected Fellows will align with one of six high-impact issue areas:

• National Security

• Trade & Economics

• Science & Technology

• Human Rights, Law & Democracy

• Climate & Environment

• Research, Education & Academic Freedom

Program Benefits — What You Gain

Being selected as a Penn Project Fellow means you will:

1. Conduct high-level research and produce a 6,000-word policy paper addressing a critical U.S.–China issue.
2. Present early drafts at an in-person workshop at the University of Pennsylvania — a unique opportunity for feedback from senior mentors and distinguished experts.
3. Engage with Chinese counterparts during optional travel to China, enhancing your research and global perspective.
4. Participate in policy briefings in Washington, D.C., directly contributing to policymaker discussions.
5. Publish and share your research via the Penn Project’s website, webinars, and podcast — amplifying your voice in international policy circles.

Why This Fellowship Matters

As geopolitical relations between the United States and China continue to evolve, there is rising demand for fresh, informed, and pragmatic voices in policy debates. This fellowship connects early- and mid-career thought leaders with influential academic and policy networks — offering an unparalleled platform to influence international affairs and broaden your professional reach.

Eligibility Requirements 

To be considered for this competitive fellowship, applicants must:

• Be early- to mid-career academics or professionals with several years of full-time experience in a field related to China studies or U.S.–China policy.
• Possess demonstrated expertise on China or U.S.–China relations.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or be full-time employed at a U.S. institution.
• Preference given to candidates currently based in the United States.

Application Components — What to Submit

Your application must include the following documents, all submitted via email to:
📧 us-china@upenn.edu

1. Personal Statement (up to 500 words)
   – Introduce your expertise, interest in the Project, and what you hope to achieve.

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   – Detail your academic background, professional experience, and any China-focused research or policy work.

3. Précis of Your Proposed Policy Paper (up to 1000 words)
   – Describe the topic you plan to research and the concrete recommendations you’ll develop.

📝 Tip: Be explicit about how your policy proposal addresses pressing issues in the U.S.–China relationship.

Apply here

Fellowship Timeline & Key Events