Overview
The Undergraduate Research Fellowship supports students conducting original research related to Sikh studies under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Fellows receive a $1,000 stipend, join a cohort of peer researchers, and participate in weekly seminars throughout the academic term.
Stipend
$1,000
Duration
One academic term (Fall, Spring, or Summer)
Commitment
8–10 hours per week
Format
Virtual (no relocation required)
What You'll Do
- Conduct an independent research project on a topic aligned with our program areas
- Meet regularly with your faculty mentor for guidance and feedback
- Participate in weekly seminars with your cohort of fellow researchers
- Produce a final deliverable: research paper, creative work, or presentation
This fellowship supports original research projects—not research assistant positions where students assist with a faculty member’s existing work.
Eligibility
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate at any accredited college or university worldwide
- Must secure a faculty mentor before applying (see below)
- Project must align with one of the Center's four program areas
- Students may receive funding for a maximum of 2 terms
- Cannot receive a stipend for research that also earns course credit or another stipend
Finding a Mentor
You must identify a faculty mentor and secure their agreement to supervise your project before submitting your application. Your mentor will complete a Faculty Endorsement Form, which is automatically sent to them when you submit your application.
Option 1: Harvard Sikh Center Affiliated Faculty
Browse our Affiliated Faculty page to find scholars whose research aligns with your project.
Option 2: External Faculty Mentor
You may propose a mentor outside our network. External mentors must hold a faculty position at an accredited institution or be an independent scholar with a demonstrated publication record. External mentors are subject to Center approval.
Tips for Approaching Potential Mentor
- Be specific about your research question and why you're interested
- Reference the mentor's work and explain how your interests connect
- Attach a brief research concept (one page)
- Consider approaching 2–3 potential mentors in case your first choice is unavailable
Application Materials
Your application includes:
Research Proposal (500 words max)
Your research question, significance, methodology, feasibility, and expected outcomes
Personal Statement (500 words max)
How this fellowship fits your goals, what you bring to the community, and relevant experience
Unofficial Transcript
Include current course schedule (Fall applicants) or most recent grades
Resume/CV
(optional)
Faculty Mentor Endorsement
Submitted separately by your mentor after you apply
Selection Criteria
By accepting the fellowship, you agree to:
- Quality and originality of the proposed research
- Alignment with the Center's program areas
- Feasibility within one term
- Applicant's preparation and potential
- Strength of the mentorship plan
Frequently Asked Questions
You may propose an external mentor. Include their CV or academic profile link and a brief justification for why they’re the best fit.
Yes, but you may receive funding for a maximum of 2 terms total. Submit a new application each term.
Contact us immediately. We’ll work with you to identify an alternative mentor or adjust your project.
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