Program Coordinator, Fellowships and Research Administration

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world‑changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

The John

F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School's mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting‑edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match.

When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The Middle East Initiative (MEI) at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs is Harvard University's principal forum for policy‑relevant research and teaching on the contemporary Middle East and North Africa. Through the integration of scholarly research, policy analysis, executive and graduate education, and community engagement, MEI aims to advance public policy and build capacity in the Middle East, with the goal of enhancing the lives of all the region's peoples.

As part of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, MEI believes that being a diverse and inclusive organization is not only morally right, but also central to our ability to achieve our mission. We do not discriminate against any person based on race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, income, or status as a veteran.

MEI is seeking an enthusiastic and resourceful Program Coordinator, Fellowships and Research Administration, to administer MEI's fellowship programs, research awards, and related activities. Reporting to the Associate Director, this role is responsible for executing core programs, ensuring smooth operations, and providing faculty, students, and scholars with opportunities to deepen their engagement with the MENA region. This is an early‑to‑mid‑career, operations‑oriented role ideal for someone with 3‑5 years of experience who is eager to support these programs in a mission‑driven academic environment.

• Under the direction of the MEI Associate Director, implements fellowship advertising, recruitment, and nomination processes aligned with program priorities.
• Administers application, selection, nomination, and hiring processes on behalf of MEI, in coordination with MEI leadership and relevant faculty committees.
• Administers the annual fellowship renewal process in close coordination with MEI Associate Director.
• Drafts fellowship letters and related correspondence on behalf of MEI Faculty Chair.
• Works with the Harvard International Office to procure visas for fellows as needed.
• Provides logistical support for fellows' arrival and onboarding.
• Tracks and maintains records of fellowship status, evaluations, and alumni updates.
• May read fellowship applications and make recommendations to MEI leadership and/or relevant committees.

• Administers application and award processes for MEI Faculty Research Awards and MEI Student Research & Internship funding opportunities, including: coordinating with MEI leadership and relevant faculty committees; implementing relevant HKS central timelines, procedures, and policies; marketing award opportunities (in coordination with the Program Coordinator, Events and Communications); preparing and reviewing applications and making recommendations to the MEI Associate Director, Faculty Chair, or committees as relevant;
  
  and administering award disbursements.
• Tracks and maintains records of faculty research progress reporting and publications, as well as student activities supported by MEI.
• In collaboration with MEI's Communication and Events Coordinator, drafts content for MEI website,…