The University of Pennsylvania’s Perry World House (PWH) invites applications for the 2026–2027 Lightning Scholar Program, designed for early-career, tenure-track faculty in global affairs. This prestigious program provides scholars from around the world with the opportunity to engage in advanced research, policy collaboration, and interdisciplinary exchange in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
About Perry World House
Founded in 2016, Perry World House serves as the University of Pennsylvania’s hub for global engagement and policy dialogue. It connects scholars, policymakers, and students to address today’s most pressing international challenges, ranging from climate change and global justice to democracy and security.
Through its research initiatives, fellowships, and global forums, PWH fosters collaboration between academia and the policy world, creating real-world impact through informed research and dialogue.
About the Lightning Scholar Program
The Lightning Scholar Program is tailored for untenured, tenure-track faculty at leading universities who seek a supportive environment to complete a major research project or book. Selected scholars will join the Penn community for a semester or a full academic year in residence, gaining access to world-class resources and engagement with global policy leaders.
Participants are encouraged to focus on topics aligned with Perry World House’s core research themes:
- Climate Change and Global Sustainability
- Democracy and Governance
- Global Justice and Human Rights
- Security and International Cooperation
The program supports innovative scholarship that bridges research and policy, offering scholars the space and community to produce meaningful academic work that contributes to global discussions.
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Fellowship Benefits
The Perry World House Lightning Scholar Program offers competitive compensation and research support, including:
- Minimum funding of $50,000, plus relevant fees and health insurance (if applicable).
- $5,000 research grant to support academic projects and fieldwork.
- Access to policy engagement opportunities through workshops and colloquia.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration with leading scholars and visiting policymakers.
The program’s structure allows fellows to take leave from their home institutions with financial support that can supplement or extend a sabbatical.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a Ph.D., J.D., or equivalent degree.
- Be untenured, tenure-track faculty at a recognized college or university.
- Conduct research relevant to global affairs or policy.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to policy engagement.
Preference is given to candidates whose work aligns with Perry World House’s global research priorities.
Application Process
Applications are open via Interfolio. The application period runs from September 4, 2025, until the deadline on December 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time).
Applicants must include the following materials:
- A cover letter outlining their interest and qualifications.
- A three-page research proposal describing the project to be undertaken.
- A writing sample.
- A current CV.
- A letter of support from their home institution or department.
- One confidential letter of recommendation submitted via Interfolio.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting December 1, 2025.
For questions, applicants can contact: worldhouse@pwh.upenn.edu.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
