Visiting Researchers

Each year, the Center for Global Christianity & Mission welcomes a small community of academics and professionals from around the world. Visiting Researchers work on their own projects, but may also take advantage of the Boston University library system and network of scholars.

Visiting Researchers include those who have already obtained academic recognition in their fields, scholars who are at the beginning of their careers, advanced PhD students, and practitioners wanting to deepen or pursue a particular interest.

The CGCM sponsors at least one community gathering a semester, where Visiting Researchers share their progress, receive feedback on their work, and learn from one another.

Visiting Researchers receive:

  • a bu.edu email address
  • access to a community of scholars
  • Boston University library privileges
  • supporting letters for their research projects, if required
  • promotion of their projects through the CGCM

While in the area, Visiting Researchers can also take advantage of the dense network of institutions and people in the Boston area.

Application

If you are interested in being a Visiting Researcher, the first step is to contact the Associate Director, Daryl Ireland. Please include your CV, a short statement of intent, and the name and contact information of one reference. The Associate Director will then contact you to discuss your application.

Visiting Researchers are welcome any time of the year, but the CGCM community is most active during the fall semester (September – mid-December) and spring semester (mid-January – May). Visiting Researcher appointments may be made for up to one year and, under certain circumstances, be renewed.

Fees & Scholarships

The university charges $1,000 because of the time and paperwork involved. The CGCM requests an $100 for administration fees.

It is possible to apply for a waiver of this paperwork costs. If that will be necessary, please not it in your application email.

Accommodation

It is the responsibility of each Visiting Researcher to secure external housing.

Visas

Visiting Researchers coming from outside the United States will require a J-1 visa. To receive that, non-US citizens will need to prove they meet the minimum funding requirements. If those conditions are met, and your application to the CGCM is approved, Boston University will help process the necessary paperwork for you to secure a visa.