Please note that the Research Scholar Initiative in economics is currently on hold and will not be accepting applications for the 2025-2026 admissions cycle.
According to a recent National Science Foundation survey of earned PhDs, less than 5 percent of PhD recipients in economics or related fields are underrepresented minorities. The changing demographic of the United States and the growing demand for economists in various sectors highlight the importance of remedying this issue.
The Research Scholar Initiative (RSI) strongly encourages applications from students from groups underrepresented in the academy.
As a research scholar in economics, you will:
- serve as a part-time research assistant for a Harvard faculty member
- take undergraduate and/or graduate coursework in economics or related fields
- participate in Harvard Department of Economics workshops
- have access to Harvard University resources including faculty, libraries, tutoring, and professional development seminars
- receive full funding including a stipend, health insurance, and tuition.
Visit the Research Scholar Initiative program page for application information.
