What We Do
The Center for Jewish Studies serves as an umbrella organization, encompassing and coordinating the many academic and extra-curricular programs in Jewish Studies at Harvard University.
CJS Director: Derek Penslar
Derek J. Penslar is William Lee Frost Professor of Jewish History at the Department of History.
Read more about our Faculty Leadership
Academics
Fellowship Opportunities
The Center for Jewish Studies supports a number of fellowships and prizes for qualified undergraduate and graduate Harvard students, as well as an exchange program for graduate students in Jewish studies with The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
We are also pleased to support and host research scholars, Visiting Professors and Lecturers in Jewish studies from outside Harvard.
Recent News
- NEW HLS Courses Spring 2025Spring 2025 courses by Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson, Caroline Zelaznik Gruss and Joseph S. Gruss Visiting Professor in Talmudic Civil Law Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson holds a PhD in Jewish Thought from Hebrew University, a J.D….
- 2025-2026 Harry Starr Fellowship in Judaica application process now open
The Harvard University Center for Jewish Studies invites applications for the 2025-2026 Harry Starr Fellowship in Judaica The Starr fellowships for 2025-26 will be available to scholars working on topics related to Jewish Mysticism and Kabbalah. Application… - Application Deadline Extended: Azrieli International Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025-26
The deadline for the Azrieli International Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025-26 cohort has been extended. The new deadline to submit applications is January 22, 2025. Beyond financial support, Fellows benefit from enrichment activities and events, networking opportunities, and…
Upcoming Events
Giving to the CJS
The Center for Jewish Studies is very grateful to our donors for their generosity in supporting our endeavors. Those pursuing Jewish studies at Harvard University may benefit from a number of endowment and current use funds established over the years. New funds are formed continuously to support students and scholars in their pursuit for greater knowledge and achievement in this field. These may also support publications, events, other activities and administration at the Center for Jewish Studies.
Our Newsletter
Our office proudly presents annual or biannual Newsletters with comprehensive accounts of current work done at the CJS.
