Applications are now open for 2026 Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University, The Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ), Harvard University supports postdoctoral researchers whose work contributes to the discovery and formal scientific description of Earth’s animal biodiversity. The fellowship provides researchers with an opportunity to conduct taxonomic and systematic research in collaboration with MCZ faculty-curators.

During the fellowship, researchers will work under the guidance of one or more MCZ faculty-curators, who will provide access to office space, laboratory facilities and other research resources needed to carry out the proposed project.

The programme has a broad taxonomic scope and does not limit applications to a particular group of organisms. Research may focus on living or extinct animal species, allowing fellows to explore a wide range of biodiversity questions. Botanists whose research examines plant-animal interactions are also encouraged to apply.

Overall, the fellowship is intended to advance the understanding of global biodiversity by supporting research that can contribute to the discovery, documentation and formal classification of species new to science.

If you’re interested in this prestigious fellowship program, we encourage you to read the article carefully and follow the application guidelines closely. Make sure to review all eligibility criteria and submit your application within the specified timeline.

Last Date of Application: 30^th September 2026

Applications are now open for 2026 Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University Eligibility Criteria

The Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ), Harvard University is intended for early-career researchers with a strong background in taxonomy and/or systematics. The fellowship is open to applicants internationally.

• Applicants must hold a Ph.D. with relevant research experience in taxonomy and/or systematics, awarded within the three years preceding the application.
• All formal requirements for the doctoral degree must be completed before the fellowship begins. The actual degree certificate may be issued later.
• The fellowship is open to both U.S. and international applicants.
• Applicants must identify at least one MCZ faculty-curator who has agreed to serve as their fellowship supervisor.
• The programme is broadly focused on biodiversity and is not limited to a particular animal taxon, whether living or extinct.
• Botanists researching plant-animal interactions are also encouraged to apply.

Applications are now open for 2026 Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University Selection Criteria

Applications are reviewed by a committee of Harvard faculty. The selection process places particular emphasis on:

• The potential of the proposed research to lead to the discovery and formal description of animal species new to science.
• A well-developed research programme with clear research objectives and significance.
• The application of integrative approaches, combining multiple types of data to address taxonomic and systematic questions.
• A strong academic and research record in taxonomy and/or systematics.

How to apply?

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit the following materials:

Cover Letter

A one-page cover letter outlining the applicant’s background and interest in the fellowship.

Research Proposal

A research proposal of no more than four single-spaced pages should explain:

• The scope and objectives of the proposed research
• Research methods and approaches to be used
• How existing MCZ collections will contribute to the project and how new specimens may be added
• Required laboratory facilities and equipment
• The proposed MCZ faculty-curator supervisor
• Expected outcomes and research products, such as publications, to be completed during the fellowship

Research Budget

Applicants must provide a one-page research budget detailing anticipated research and travel expenses. The proposed costs must remain within the fellowship’s available allowance.

Curriculum Vitae

A CV of no more than three pages should be included.

Publications

Applicants may submit up to five relevant publications demonstrating their research experience and expertise.

Letters of Recommendation

Three recommendation letters are required from scientists who are not affiliated with Harvard University. Applicants must provide the names and contact details of their three referees.

The referees will submit their letters separately through the designated online system. The letters must be received within two weeks after the application deadline. An application will be considered complete only after all three recommendation letters have been submitted.

Interview

A selected group of applicants may be invited to participate in a videoconference interview with the selection committee to discuss their research proposal and fellowship plans.

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Learn more about the Fellowship Program

FAQs – Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship

1. What is the Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The fellowship is offered through the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University to support postdoctoral research focused on discovering and formally describing animal species.

2. Who can apply for the Biodiversity Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The fellowship is intended for researchers with a Ph.D. and relevant experience in taxonomy and/or systematics, with the doctoral degree awarded within the required eligibility period. Both U.S. and non-U.S. applicants can apply.

3. Does the fellowship focus on a particular animal group?

No. The programme has a broad taxonomic scope and welcomes research on living or extinct animal groups. Botanists studying plant-animal interactions may also apply.

4. Do applicants need an MCZ faculty-curator as a supervisor?

Yes. Applicants must identify at least one MCZ faculty-curator who has agreed to supervise the proposed fellowship research.

5. What kind of research is prioritised during selection?

Preference is given to well-developed research projects with strong potential to result in the discovery and formal taxonomic description of species new to science. The selection committee also considers research significance, integrative methodologies and the applicant’s academic record in taxonomy or systematics.

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