Carnegie Council and Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation Nuclear Ethics and Security Fellowship 2026

The Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs and the Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation (HFG) have launched the inaugural Nuclear Ethics and Security Fellowship Programme 2026. This prestigious opportunity seeks researchers and practitioners who can contribute to critical discussions on nuclear ethics, deterrence, security, and global stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

The fellowship offers a unique platform for experts to conduct impactful research, engage policymakers, publish influential work, and educate future leaders on the ethical challenges surrounding nuclear security.

Fellowship Overview

About the Fellowship

The fellowship was created in response to growing concerns about nuclear proliferation, evolving deterrence strategies, and the weakening of traditional international security frameworks. Carnegie Council and HFG aim to foster research that addresses the ethical implications of a world facing renewed nuclear challenges.

The selected fellow will lead a research and education agenda focused on understanding and responding to the ethical choices presented by a more nuclearized world.

Research Areas

Applicants may propose projects related to:

1. The Future of Deterrence

• Evolution of deterrence strategies
• Nuclear security in a multipolar world
• Ethical dimensions of deterrence

2. The Future of Non-Proliferation

• Balancing nuclear security and global power shifts
• International cooperation and arms control
• Ethical frameworks for nuclear governance

3. Emerging Technologies and Nuclear Risks

• Artificial Intelligence and nuclear strategy
• Cybersecurity threats
• Space-based security challenges
• Ethical considerations of technological advancement

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

Monthly Financial Support

A stipend of $3,500 USD per month throughout the 12-month fellowship period.

Research and Publication Support

Carnegie Council staff will provide assistance with:

• Research activities
• Publication development
• Editorial support
• Dissemination of findings

Networking Opportunities

Participants will gain access to:

• Policymakers
• International experts
• Academic researchers
• Global security professionals
• Carnegie Council networks

Public Engagement Platform

The fellow will have opportunities to:

• Publish opinion pieces
• Organize major events
• Present research findings
• Engage future leaders and students

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should possess:

• Doctoral-level expertise (Ph.D. or equivalent professional experience)
• Demonstrated knowledge in relevant fields
• Interest in ethics-focused research with real-world applications
• Strong professional network relevant to the proposed project
• Availability to collaborate with Carnegie Council and HFG for 12 months

International applicants are welcome to apply. However, the selected fellow must be able to obtain any required travel documentation for participation in fellowship-related activities.

Expected Outputs

The selected fellow is expected to contribute through:

• One major international convening or event
• Two to three high-profile opinion articles
• One peer-reviewed academic journal publication
• Engagement with Carnegie Ethics Fellows
• Development of educational resources and learning materials

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit a research proposal outlining:

• Research objectives
• Proposed activities
• Expected outcomes
• Relevance to nuclear ethics and security
• Potential impact on policy and public understanding

Proposals should clearly demonstrate how the project contributes to addressing contemporary nuclear challenges through an ethical lens.

Selection Process

Step 1: Proposal Submission

Applicants submit their research proposals before the deadline.

Step 2: Initial Review

All proposals are reviewed by the fellowship organizers.

Step 3: Discovery Call

Selected finalists may be invited to participate in a 30-minute Zoom discovery call.

Step 4: Final Selection

Successful candidates will be notified and prepared for fellowship commencement in Fall 2026.

Finalists are expected to receive updates within approximately 60 days after submission.

Application Deadline

Deadline: July 12, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)

Late applications may not be considered.

Application Link

Apply through the official Carnegie Council fellowship page:

Carnegie Council Fellowship Application Page

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the fellowship open to applicants outside the United States?

Yes. International candidates are eligible to apply.

How much is the fellowship stipend?

The selected fellow receives $3,500 USD per month for 12 months.

Is the fellowship full-time?

No. It is a part-time, non-resident fellowship.

Do applicants need a Ph.D.?

Applicants should have doctoral-level expertise, either through a Ph.D. or equivalent professional experience.

When will the fellowship begin?

The fellowship is expected to commence in Fall 2026.

Conclusion

The Carnegie Council and Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation Nuclear Ethics and Security Fellowship Programme 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for researchers, academics, and policy professionals interested in addressing some of the world’s most pressing nuclear security challenges. With generous financial support, access to influential networks, and opportunities for impactful publications, the fellowship offers a powerful platform to shape discussions on ethics, security, and global stability in the nuclear age. Applicants with strong expertise and innovative research ideas are encouraged to submit their proposals before the July 12, 2026 deadline.