Start Your Research Journey in Canada With John H McArthur Fellowship 2025
In 2025, the John H. McArthur Research Fellowship—administered by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada—opens a distinguished path for mid‑career scholars conducting policy‑relevant research on Canada’s Indo-Pacific engagement, with a specific focus on Canada–U.S. relations. This one‑year fellowship awards C$25,000 per fellow and supports up to four researchers from September 1, 2025 through July 31, 2026. Fellows are expected to produce a flagship research paper, policy briefs, and deliver a closed‑door briefing in Ottawa, as well as participate in a symposium in Toronto. While priority is given to Canadian and U.S. citizens or permanent residents, qualified international applicants with relevant expertise may also be considered
Fellowship Focus and Themes:
This year’s Fellowship seeks research that addresses the rapidly changing geopolitical and economic landscape. Applicants are encouraged to explore topics such as:
- Strategic competition and regional security in the Indo-Pacific
- Alignment of Canadian and United States policies regarding trade, technology, and critical minerals
- Economic diversification strategies and supply chain resilience
- Emerging technology standards and digital commerce governance
- Indo-Pacific diplomacy and defense industrial base cooperation.
Fellowship Term and Deliverables:
Fellowships run from September 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026. Each Fellow is expected to deliver:
- A flagship research paper (6,000–8,000 words)
- Two op-eds or policy briefs
- A policy briefing that is conducted in Ottawa behind closed doors
- Attendance at a symposium in Toronto in April 2026
- public dissemination of findings and media engagement.
Who Should Apply?
Mid-career professionals with 10–20 years of experience in academia, public policy, think tanks, or international affairs are eligible candidates. APF Canada will prioritize Canadian and U.S. citizens and permanent residents; however, exceptional candidates from other countries whose work is consistent with the Fellowship’s mission will also be considered.
Check Also: Canadian Universities Offering Scholarships
Application Process:
Applicants must submit the following documents here https://www.asiapacific.ca/john-mcarthur-research-fellowship-call-for-applications-2025-2026:
- A 500-word statement of intent
- Curriculum vitae (including publication list)
- Detailed research proposal (1,000–1,200 words)
- Two professional or academic letters of recommendation
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the John H. McArthur Fellowship?
The John H. McArthur Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded research fellowship for emerging scholars, typically hosted by the Harvard Kennedy School’s Canada Program or other affiliated institutions that focus on Canada–U.S. policy and leadership.
Who can apply for the McArthur Fellowship 2025?
Eligible applicants include:
Graduate students (Master’s or PhD level)
Early-career professionals in policy, economics, public administration, or international relations
Researchers focused on Canada–U.S. relations, public policy, or leadership studies
International students are encouraged to apply, especially those:
Interested in Canada-focused policy work
Seeking academic/research exposure in North AmericaWhat does the fellowship cover?
Funding typically includes:
A stipend for living expenses (amount varies by institution)
Research support and access to faculty mentorship
Travel costs (if applicable to Canada/U.S.)
Access to seminars, conferences, and policy networks
