The CIS PhD Student Research Grants are funding awards offered by the Centre for International Studies at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The programme supports doctoral candidates with interests in the field of international studies. It will help PhD students carry out fieldwork, archival research, and cover travel-related expenses for their dissertation projects. The grants support quality empirical research that will have a good impact in international policy space. It enables students to access materials and data that are important to their research.
About the CIS PhD Student Research Grants
The CIS PhD Student Research Grants give funding aid to MIT doctoral students with research in international issues. This funding covers travel expenses, field research costs, and archival visits. It is a way to promote interests in international studies and the public sector.
CIS reviews proposals based on academic merit, clarity of research, feasibility, and original financial need. In addition to standard research grants, the programme offers a higher value Trailblazer Grant for advanced doctoral candidates undertaking ambitious and resource-intensive projects.
This makes it an ideal funding opportunity for PhD candidates who study international relations and political development. The grant encourages international research across several disciplines and supports work that contributes meaningfully to global scholarship.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: USD 5,000
- Maximum award: USD 15,000
- Project duration supported: two to ten weeks
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Who Can Apply for the CIS PhD Student Research Grants
Eligible organisation types
- Individual PhD students enrolled at MIT
- Doctoral candidates conducting research in international studies
- Students in good academic standing
- Advanced PhD candidates are eligible for the Trailblazer Grant
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of current PhD enrolment at MIT
- Curriculum vitae demonstrating research background
- Detailed research proposal
- Letter of support from dissertation advisor
Project focus requirements
- Research related to international or global issues
- Empirical fieldwork
- Archival-based research
- Clear methodology and research objectives
- Strong reason for travel and related costs
Geographic eligibility
- Research may take place internationally or within the United States
- Travel must align with dissertation research needs
- Applicants must comply with institutional travel policies
Sector or thematic focus.
- International relations
- Comparative politics
- Global governance and policy
- Regional collaboration
- Transnational studies
Application Process
- Prepare a comprehensive research PROPOSAL showing objectives, methodology, and expected solutions
- Complete the official CIS grant application form
- Submit a curriculum vitae
- Obtain and submit a letter of support from your dissertation advisor
- Provide a detailed research budget
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Research proposal
- Curriculum vitae
- Advisor recommendation letter
- Budget detailing projected research expenses
Key Dates
- Application deadline: March 13 2026
- Review period: March 14 to Wednesday, April 15 2026
- Notification of results: Wednesday April 15 2026
Selection Notes
- The programme is competitive
- Trailblazer Grants are awarded to advanced candidates with complex research plans
- Applications lacking clear international relevance and methodological ability are excluded.
Official Source of the CIS PhD Student Research Grants
Application Page: https://cis.mit.edu/opportunities/students/PhD-Student-Research-Grants