Research projects are carried out under the supervision of a carefully matched member of the University faculty and are directed toward the completion of one or two scientific papers suitable for publication or for use as teaching materials. Such projects might include an analysis of a Fellow's experience in a health program, the preparation of case studies, the development of new health programs, or the analysis of health policies. A Harvard faculty member will serve as supervisor or collaborator in the research project of each candidate chosen. The weekly Takemi Seminar is the primary teaching activity of the Fellowship Program. It examines the question of how to set priorities under conditions of limited resources and evolving technology.
Fellows explore such techniques as quantitative, institutional, bioethical and social analyses.
Seminar materials stress comparative case studies in international health, with problems drawn from both developed and developing countries. Seminars are led by faculty members from the School of Public Health and other Harvard Faculties, and by outside specialists. In addition to the core seminar, Fellows are encouraged to participate in courses, seminars, and other activities relevant to their interests at the School of Public Health, throughout Harvard University, and at other universities in the Boston area. These provide opportunities to strengthen a Fellow's knowledge of economics, epidemiology, policy formulation, political analysis, organizational behavior, or evaluation with an emphasis on the application of quantitative analytic methods. The activities also provide Fellows with the opportunity to interact extensively with students, faculty and other professionals, which in some cases has led to funded collaborative research projects.