Applications are open for the Berenson Fellowship hosted by I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies. This residential fellowship supports scholars researching transnational dialogues between Italy and other cultures during the Renaissance.
The program takes place in Florence, Italy. Fellows join the I Tatti scholarly community while pursuing their research full-time. In addition, selected fellows receive USD 5,200 per month, plus a one-time supplement (maximum USD 1,800) toward relocation expenses.
Application Deadline:
Applications must be submitted electronically by 16 November 2026 (midnight, Cambridge, Massachusetts time). Letters of recommendation must be submitted by 21 November 2026. The fellowship cannot be deferred.
Tell Me About The Award:
The Berenson Fellowship at Harvard University’s Villa I Tatti, The Harvard Center for Italian Renaissance Studies, supports scholars researching “Italy in the World” during the Renaissance period. The fellowship encourages research on transnational exchanges between Italy and other cultures, including African, Asian, Mediterranean, and Latin American societies between the 14th and 17th centuries.
The fellowship provides scholars with dedicated research time, access to extensive academic resources, and participation in the intellectual community at Villa I Tatti in Florence, Italy.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants from the following disciplines are encouraged to apply:
- Architecture
- Art History and Visual Arts
- History
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Music
- History of Science
Projects must focus on connections between Italy and other cultures during the Renaissance period.
Type:
Postdoctoral Research Fellowship.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold a completed PhD at the time of application.
- Upload a copy of their doctoral certificate.
- Not be pursuing a second PhD.
- Be conversant in English and have familiarity with Italian.
- Be able to conduct most of their research in Florence.
- Not have previously held an I Tatti Term Fellowship (except former Graduate Fellows).
Priority is given to early- and mid-career scholars.
How are Applicants Selected?
Applications are reviewed by an international selection committee based on:
- Quality and originality of the proposed project.
- Potential for significant scholarly contribution.
- Applicant’s academic record and curriculum vitae.
- Ability to contribute positively to the intellectual life of Villa I Tatti.
- Relevance of the project to the fellowship theme, “Italy in the World.”
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Applicants of all nationalities are eligible.
Where will the Award be Taken?
Villa I Tatti, The Harvard Center for Italian Renaissance Studies, Florence, Italy.
How Many Awards?
Up to four fellowships are awarded each year.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
Successful fellows receive:
- USD 5,200 per month
- Up to USD 1,800 relocation allowance
- Possible rent-free accommodation at Villa I Tatti (when available)
- Housing subsidy if university accommodation is unavailable
- Full access to the Biblioteca Berenson seven days a week
- Weekday lunches with the Villa I Tatti scholarly community
- Workspace in the library
How Long Will the Award Last?
The fellowship is residential and lasts either:
- 4 months (September to December), or
- 6 months (January to June)
How to Apply:
- Review the fellowship guidelines and eligibility criteria.
- Prepare a research proposal and curriculum vitae.
- Upload a copy of your PhD certificate.
- Register two academic referees who will submit recommendation letters.
- Submit the completed application through the official Villa I Tatti online application portal before the deadline.
Applications may be submitted in either English or Italian.
Application portal: https://itatti.slideroom.com/
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
