Photo: Steve Baccon and John Donegan

The Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser Chair in Australian Studies was established through a gift of the Australian Government to Harvard University, in recognition of the American Bicentennial, to further understanding of Australia in the United States. Over the past 35 years, the Chair has been occupied by some of Australia’s most outstanding intellectuals. In 2010, the Chair was renamed in recognition of the two prime ministers who, from opposite sides of politics, brought to fruition this important initiative. Incumbents of the Chair ordinarily hold the title of Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser Visiting Professor of Australian Studies and reside at Harvard for the full academic year (August through May).

The application process for 2025-2026 is now closed. Harvard University will seek to appoint a distinguished scholar to the Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser Chair in Australian Studies for the 2026-2027 academic year. Please check back here in early summer of 2024 for the job posting.

The Australian Nominating Committee encourages applications from outstanding Australians in mid-career as well as those further advanced. It also strongly encourages applications from women and under-represented groups. The Committee reserves the right to invite particular persons to accept nomination. Shortlisted candidates will be identified by the Australian Nominating Committee for final review and appointment by the Harvard Committee on Australian Studies.