Chatham House Research in Practice PhD Placement: An Overview
Chatham House, a respected policy institute and think tank, is offering a valuable opportunity for PhD students through its Research in Practice placement program for the 2026-2027 academic year. This placement provides aspiring researchers with hands-on experience within a leading global affairs organization. The program aims to immerse students in real-world research, policy analysis, and the practical application of academic knowledge.
The Queen Elizabeth II Academy for Leadership and the Next Generation at Chatham House spearheads this initiative, focusing on empowering emerging leaders to tackle global issues. By welcoming PhD students into its research community, Chatham House offers a unique chance to contribute to ongoing projects and gain insights into the workings of a prominent policy institute. This article explores the details of the placement, including its objectives, responsibilities, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Placement Details and Responsibilities
The Chatham House Research in Practice placement is designed to offer a comprehensive and enriching experience for PhD students. Participants will actively contribute to a research project for the duration of their placement, which typically lasts three months. This involvement can span various tasks, from conducting desk research and literature reviews to assisting with the drafting of publications.
Students may also be involved in designing and conducting research interviews, gathering feedback, and synthesizing information from high-level workshops and conferences. A key aspect of the placement is supporting the program’s response to significant international developments. This involves undertaking timely research and writing policy briefs or monitoring relevant issues.
Collaboration is also encouraged, with opportunities to work with colleagues from different research areas within Chatham House. This cross-disciplinary approach helps in drawing together complementary research and exploring potential avenues for collaboration. Furthermore, students will gain experience in identifying and pursuing opportunities for developing research and grant proposals, contributing to submissions for various funders. Depending on the specific project, participants might also gain exposure to drafting, monitoring, and reconciling project reports and budgets. Supporting Chatham House events, including topic identification, speaker suggestions, and planning, is another potential area of involvement.
The Queen Elizabeth II Academy’s Leadership Masterclass
Beyond the direct research activities, the placement includes participation in The Queen Elizabeth II Academy’s Leadership Masterclass Programme. This program runs weekly throughout the placement and offers a series of skills workshops, thematic sessions, and leadership training. These sessions are designed to complement the research experience by developing essential soft skills and leadership qualities vital for a career in policy and research.
Students will also benefit from access to Chatham House’s extensive networks, its well-stocked library, and a busy schedule of events featuring world-leading experts. This provides a rich environment for learning, networking, and staying abreast of current global affairs. The combination of practical research experience and dedicated leadership development makes this placement a well-rounded opportunity for academic and professional growth.
Eligibility and Application Process
The Chatham House Research in Practice PhD placement is specifically open to PhD students affiliated with certain Doctoral Training Programmes (DTPs). These include the UCL, Bloomsbury and East London Doctoral Training Programme, the London School of Economics Doctoral Training Programme, and the London Interdisciplinary Social Science Doctoral Training Programme. Applicants must be enrolled in one of these programs to be considered for the placement.
Candidates can apply to one of five distinct Chatham House research programmes: the Europe Programme, Global Health Programme, International Law Programme, International Security Programme, or the US and North America Programme. Applicants should choose the program that best aligns with their research interests and academic background.
The application deadline for the 2026-2027 placement is Monday, September 7, 2026, at 23:59 GMT. The placement itself is scheduled to run from October 1, 2026, to January 8, 2027, for a duration of three months on a full-time basis. Interested and eligible students are encouraged to visit the Chatham House careers portal to submit their applications. Further details and the application link can be found on the Research in Practice – PhD placement page.
Conclusion
The Chatham House Research in Practice PhD placement offers a unique and valuable opportunity for doctoral students to gain practical experience in international affairs research and policy analysis. By engaging in real-world projects, participating in leadership development, and accessing a network of experts, students can significantly advance their academic and professional trajectories. This program underscores Chatham House’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of global leaders and researchers.
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