The Wallace Fellowship 2026 at Harvard’s Villa I Tatti offers scholars the chance to study the Italian Renaissance and its impact on the modern era.
However, the residential fellowship supports research on the Renaissance from the 19th to the 21st century. In addition, Fellows gain access to Harvard’s research resources and the academic community in Florence, Italy.
Up to four fellowships are awarded each year.
Therefore, the fellowship lasts for four or six months.
Who is Eligible for the Wallace Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship is open to scholars from all nations.
However, applicants must:
- Already have a PhD when they apply.
- Not be working toward a second PhD.
- Have a strong research project related to the Italian Renaissance and modernity.
- Be able to work mainly from research resources in Florence.
- Be conversant in English.
- Have familiarity with Italian.
Also, the programme gives particular consideration to early- and mid-career scholars. It also welcomes researchers who have limited access to research materials and facilities in Italy.
What Country or Region is Eligible?
There is no nationality restriction. Scholars from all countries can apply.
However, the research must allow the applicant to work mainly in Florence, Italy. Therefore, applicants should consider whether their project can benefit from the resources available at I Tatti.
What does the Fellowship Cover?
The fellowship supports research connected to the Italian Renaissance and its impact on the modern world.
Possible research areas include:
- Art and architecture
- Landscape architecture
- History
- Literature
- Music
- Philosophy
- Religion
- Science
- Material culture
- Museum and collecting history
- Photography
- Political thought
Furthermore, fellows also become part of the intellectual community at I Tatti and can attend selected conferences, lectures and concerts.
What Documents are Required?
Applicants should prepare the required application materials, including:
- A PhD certificate or scan of the certificate
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Research project proposal
- Other information requested through the online application system
- Two letters of recommendation
The two referees must submit their recommendations online by November 21, 2026.
Applicants should therefore register their referees early so they have enough time to submit their letters.
When is the Deadline for the Wallace Fellowship 2026 ?
The application deadline is November 16, 2026, at midnight Cambridge, Massachusetts time.
However, recommendation letters have a later deadline of November 21, 2026.
Applicants should submit their own application before November 16 and contact their referees well in advance.
How do I Apply for the Wallace Fellowship 2026?
Applications must be submitted online.
Applicants can choose to write their application in English or Italian. They should also indicate whether they prefer the fall term (September–December) or the winter-spring term (January–June).
Each applicant can apply for only one type of fellowship at I Tatti per academic year..
For other research funding opportunities, applicants can also explore: OpportunityLab.net
What are the Benefits?
Successful Fellows receive substantial financial and research support, including:
- USD 5,200 per month
- A one-time relocation supplement of up to USD 1,800
- Possible rent-free apartment accommodation, although utility charges apply
- A housing subsidy if an apartment is unavailable
- Access to the Biblioteca Berenson seven days a week
- Lunch with other I Tatti appointees from Monday to Friday
- A personal desk or carrel in the Library
- Access to Harvard Center resources and scholarly activities
- Opportunities to connect with researchers and scholars in Florence
Therefore, the fellowship also provides Fellows with dedicated time to focus on their research with minimal interruptions.
The Wallace Fellowship is a strong opportunity for scholars researching the Italian Renaissance and its influence on modern society.
