Kroc Institute Visiting Research Fellows Program 2026 and University of Notre Dame, USA (August 2026)

The Kroc Institute Visiting Research Fellows Program 2026 provides an elite residential opportunity for scholars to advance peace research at one of the world’s leading centers for international peace studies. Located within the Keough School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame, this program integrates visiting scholars into a vibrant interdisciplinary community. Consequently, fellows benefit from a collaborative environment that bridges the gap between theoretical academic research and real-world policy applications in global conflict transformation.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Kroc Institute Visiting Research Fellows Program
Organizing Institution	Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies
Host University	University of Notre Dame, USA
Fellowship Duration	One Semester or Full Academic Year
Financial Stipend	$30,000 per Semester
Application Deadline	January 31, 2026

Program Overview

The primary objective of the Kroc Institute Visiting Research Fellows Program is to support outstanding scholars whose work contributes to the Institute’s mission of building just and sustainable peace. Specifically, the 2026-2027 cycle invites proposals that align with the Institute’s strategic research priorities. Furthermore, the program emphasizes the “Peace Accords Matrix” (PAM) and strategic peacebuilding, offering fellows the resources to influence international mediation and preventive diplomacy. Scholars are expected to be in residence, participating in the intellectual life of the Institute through seminars, workshops, and faculty interactions.

Focus Areas & Themes

For the 2026 academic year, research proposals must align with one or more of the following core themes:

• Intersection of Gender, Race, Class, and Peacebuilding: Interdisciplinary approaches to identity, power, and structural violence.
• International Mediation: Preventive diplomacy and national dialogue strategies to end high-intensity conflict.
• Peace Accords Matrix (PAM): Inclusive design and implementation of peace agreements and transitional justice.
• Sustainability, Climate Change, and Peace: Environmental peacebuilding and its impact on livelihoods and security.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Kroc Institute Visiting Research Fellows Program 2026, applicants must meet the following standards:

• Academic Credential: Applicants must hold a doctoral degree or an equivalent terminal degree.
• PhD Candidates: Students currently enrolled in a PhD program must complete all degree requirements before the fellowship start date.
• Wait Period: Former Kroc Visiting Research Fellows must wait at least seven years before being eligible to reapply.
• Research Alignment: Proposals must demonstrate a clear and direct link to the Institute’s existing research initiatives and priority themes.
• Full-Year Preference: Priority is often given to full-year applicants for the “Sustainability, Climate Change, and Peace” fellowship.

Learning Outcomes

By participating in the Kroc Institute Visiting Research Fellows Program 2026, scholars will:

• Advance a significant research project within a supportive, resource-rich academic environment.
• Develop evidence-based policy recommendations for international peacebuilding organizations.
• Establish long-term professional collaborations with Notre Dame’s world-class faculty.
• Gain exposure to diverse research methods, including qualitative and participatory feminist methodologies.

Financial Benefits

The fellowship offers a comprehensive financial package to allow scholars to focus entirely on their research:

Benefit Type	Coverage Details
Monthly Stipend	$30,000 per semester ($60,000 for a full year).
Accommodation	Free furnished housing in Institute apartments in South Bend.
Library Access	Full access to Notre Dame’s Hesburgh Libraries and retrieval services.
Research Support	High-speed internet, dedicated workspace, and administrative support.

Registration & Required Documents

Applications must be submitted through the official Interfolio portal. Each document must be formatted as a PDF and clearly labeled.

• Cover Letter (max 2 pages): Must specify duration (one/two semesters) and the chosen thematic field.
• Research Proposal (max 10 pages): Double-spaced document outlining research questions, data, methodology, and timeline.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Updated record of academic and professional achievements.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two confidential letters from referees who can speak to the applicant’s research quality.
• Bibliography: Relevant literature cited in the research proposal.

Contact Information

For technical inquiries regarding the application portal or specific research remits:

• Organization: Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies
• Coordinator: Juan Flores Ramirez
• Email: jfloresr@nd.edu
• Address: 100 Hesburgh Center, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA

Key Highlights

Fellows are not merely researchers but active participants in the “Walk the Walk Week” and various panel discussions held at the Hesburgh Center. A unique highlight of the 2026 program is the integration with the “PeaceTech and Polarization Lab” (PTAP), allowing fellows to explore the role of digital platforms in conflict dynamics. Additionally, the University’s proximity to Chicago provides further opportunities for engagement with international policy hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the selection timeline for the 2026-27 cohort?
Specifically, applications are due by January 31, 2026, and selection notifications are typically sent out in March 2026.

Is the stipend tax-exempt?
No, stipends are generally considered taxable income. International fellows should consult their home country’s tax treaties with the USA.

Can I apply for a remote fellowship?
Specifically, no. This is a residential fellowship, and scholars are expected to be physically present at the University of Notre Dame.

Are there specific language requirements?
While no formal IELTS/TOEFL score is required, fellows must have sufficient English proficiency to engage in high-level academic discussions.

What kind of housing is provided?
The Institute provides furnished apartments at no cost, which are located near the campus to facilitate integration into the university community.