United Nations University Opens Science-Policy Visiting Fellowship on Data Governance for Development – Apply by 17 June 2026 @Policy Visiting Fellowship on Data Governance for Development – Apply by 17 June 2026

United Nations University Launches Global South Science-Policy Fellowship

The United Nations University (UNU) has announced applications for its Science-Policy Visiting Fellowship focused on Data Governance for Development, offering researchers from the Global South a unique opportunity to contribute to international policymaking in Geneva, Switzerland.

Hosted by the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) in collaboration with the Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI), the six-month fellowship aims to strengthen science-informed policymaking and increase Global South participation in global governance discussions surrounding data, technology, and sustainable development.

The fellowship is based in Geneva and provides successful candidates with direct engagement opportunities within the United Nations ecosystem, diplomatic community, scientific institutions, and international policy networks.

Advancing Equitable Data Governance for Sustainable Development

The 2026–2027 fellowship focuses on the project titled “Data Governance for Development: From Asymmetry to Equitable Stewardship.”

The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD), a subsidiary body of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The project explores critical challenges related to:

• Data ownership and control
• Digital infrastructure inequalities
• Data governance capacity gaps
• Inclusive digital cooperation
• Ethical and equitable use of data
• Sustainable development through digital transformation

Particular attention will be given to the needs of:

• Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
• Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)
• Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

The fellowship seeks to examine how data governance frameworks can reduce global disparities while ensuring that data serves as a strategic resource for shared prosperity and inclusive development.

Key Responsibilities of the Visiting Fellow

The selected fellow will undertake policy-relevant research and contribute directly to ongoing United Nations discussions on digital governance.

Major responsibilities include:

Research and Analysis

• Develop a comprehensive analytical report on equitable and interoperable data governance frameworks.
• Support the CSTD Secretariat’s issues note on “Data Governance for Development: From Asymmetry to Equitable Stewardship.”
• Formulate practical and forward-looking policy recommendations.
• Assess data governance initiatives supporting implementation of the Global Digital Compact (GDC).
• Evaluate how existing United Nations initiatives contribute to development-focused digital governance objectives.

Science-Policy Engagement

• Engage with stakeholders across Geneva’s science, technology, innovation, and development ecosystem.
• Deliver presentations and policy briefings to relevant actors.
• Collaborate with organizations including UNCTAD, CSTD, and other Geneva-based institutions.
• Organize and facilitate one to two multi-stakeholder workshops involving diplomats, researchers, civil society representatives, and policymakers.

Knowledge Development

• Produce an academic publication based on fellowship research.
• Contribute to institutional knowledge-sharing activities within UNU-CPR and GSPI.
• Support the development of the fellowship programme as part of its inaugural cohort.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is exclusively open to applicants who are citizens of countries within the Global South.

Educational qualifications include:

• A PhD in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred.
• Alternatively, a Master’s degree combined with relevant professional experience may be considered.

Relevant fields include:

• Economics
• Development Economics
• Business Administration
• Public Policy
• Political Economy
• Regulatory Affairs
• Data Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Quantitative Modelling
• Governance and Development Studies

Required Skills and Experience

Applicants should demonstrate:

• At least three years of policy-relevant research experience.
• Strong interest in science, technology, and policy intersections.
• Experience engaging with science and technology policy processes.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas to non-technical audiences.
• Strong analytical and policy-writing skills.
• Experience working with interdisciplinary teams and diverse stakeholders.

Additional advantages include:

• Knowledge of data governance frameworks.
• Familiarity with internet governance processes such as IGF, UNCTAD, or ITU initiatives.
• Experience facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues.
• Understanding of digital development challenges affecting developing countries.

Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support

The fellowship offers significant support to selected candidates.

Benefits include:

• Monthly stipend of CHF 5,500.
• Additional lump-sum allowance of CHF 3,000 for health insurance and related expenses.
• Travel costs to and from Geneva covered by the programme.
• Visa application support.
• Direct engagement with leading global policymakers and researchers.

The fellowship duration is six months and is non-renewable.

Successful candidates are expected to begin their assignments as soon as possible and no later than mid-July 2026.

Supporting Global South Voices in International Policy

The fellowship reflects a broader commitment by UNU-CPR and GSPI to increase representation of Global South perspectives in international governance discussions.

By fostering collaboration between scientists, diplomats, policymakers, and development practitioners, the programme aims to strengthen evidence-based policymaking while addressing emerging challenges related to digital transformation and data governance.

The initiative also contributes to implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and broader efforts to ensure equitable participation in shaping the future of the global digital economy.

Application Process and Deadline

Interested candidates must submit:

• A current CV in English (maximum two pages).
• A cover letter in English (maximum one page).
• Responses to position-specific application questions.

Applicants should outline:

• Their motivation for applying.
• Their potential contribution to the fellowship.
• How the opportunity aligns with their future career goals.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submissions are strongly encouraged.

The application deadline is 17 June 2026 at 6:00 PM Geneva time.

Conclusion

The Science-Policy Visiting Fellowship on Data Governance for Development presents a valuable opportunity for researchers from the Global South to influence international discussions on data governance, digital cooperation, and sustainable development. Through research, policy engagement, and collaboration with key United Nations institutions, fellows will contribute to shaping more equitable and inclusive digital futures for developing nations worldwide.

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.