ISSER University of Ghana Opens Applications for 2026–2027 Pre-Doctoral Fellowship in Development Research: Apply ·2027 Pre-Doctoral Fellowship in Development Research: Apply

The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana has announced applications for its 2026–2027 Pre-Doctoral Fellowship, offering an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers to strengthen their research skills while preparing for doctoral studies.

The one-year fellowship is offered under the Standing Panel on Impact Assessment (SPIA) of CGIAR and is designed to provide practical experience in applied development research. The successful Fellow will work closely with Professor Robert Darko Osei, a SPIA Member at the University of Ghana, contributing to research that addresses critical issues in agriculture, food systems, natural resource management, and impact evaluation.

The fellowship will run from 1 September 2026 to 31 August 2027 and is based at ISSER in Accra, Ghana.

About the Pre-Doctoral Fellowship

The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship aims to equip early-career researchers with advanced research experience in development economics and related disciplines. Participants will engage in collaborative projects that generate evidence to inform policy and improve development outcomes across low- and middle-income countries.

The programme provides valuable exposure to internationally recognised research networks while allowing fellows to develop technical expertise in research design, quantitative analysis, data management, and scientific writing.

Throughout the fellowship period, participants will work alongside SPIA researchers and contribute to projects that evaluate the impact of agricultural and development interventions.

Fellowship Responsibilities

The selected Fellow will play an active role in supporting the implementation of SPIA’s research agenda.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of SPIA research activities.

• Assisting with research design, survey preparation, data collection, management, cleaning, and quantitative analysis.

• Collaborating with the global SPIA research team and other panel members on joint research activities.

• Participating in monthly SPIA research seminars and collaborative learning sessions.

• Preparing technical reports, presentations, policy briefs, and other research outputs.

• Contributing to academic publications and producing at least two technical papers during the fellowship.

• Providing administrative and project support as required by the supervising SPIA Member.

The fellowship offers practical experience across the full research cycle, enabling participants to build strong analytical and professional research skills.

Eligibility Requirements

ISSER is seeking highly motivated applicants with a strong academic background and an interest in development research.

Applicants should possess:

• A Master’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a closely related discipline.

• Strong quantitative and analytical research skills.

• Experience conducting research and managing data collection activities.

• Demonstrated interest in agriculture, food systems, natural resource management, and development challenges in low- and middle-income countries.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities.

Knowledge of impact evaluation methodologies will be considered an added advantage but is not mandatory.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive a competitive fellowship package based on their qualifications and relevant experience.

Beyond financial support, fellows will benefit from:

• Hands-on experience working with internationally recognised researchers.

• Participation in collaborative research projects within the CGIAR network.

• Opportunities to contribute to technical reports, policy briefs, and academic publications.

• Exposure to impact evaluation methodologies and applied development research.

• Mentorship that supports preparation for future doctoral studies.

The fellowship serves as an excellent stepping stone for graduates seeking careers in academia, international development, policy research, and evidence-based decision-making.

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit the following documents electronically:

• A cover letter explaining their motivation and suitability for the fellowship.

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).

• Copies of academic certificates.

• Contact information for two academic referees.

Applications should be submitted via email with the subject line:

Application – Pre-Doctoral Fellowship at ISSER

Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting applications is:

Monday, 3 August 2026

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit complete applications before the deadline, as late submissions may not be considered.

Building the Next Generation of Development Researchers

The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship provides an outstanding opportunity for graduates interested in pursuing doctoral studies while gaining valuable experience in applied research.

By working with SPIA and CGIAR researchers, fellows will contribute to evidence-based solutions that improve agriculture, food systems, and natural resource management while developing the technical and analytical skills needed for successful research careers.

Graduates with strong quantitative backgrounds and a passion for development research are encouraged to apply for this competitive fellowship opportunity.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.