Researchers and policy professionals from the Global South now have an exceptional opportunity to contribute to global discussions on digital governance, development, and emerging technologies through the United Nations University (UNU) Science-Policy Visiting Fellowship 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland.

Hosted by the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) in collaboration with the Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI), this prestigious six-month fellowship offers selected fellows the chance to conduct policy-relevant research, engage directly with international organizations, and influence global conversations on equitable data governance.

The fellowship is specifically designed to strengthen Global South participation in international science-policy processes while supporting research that contributes to sustainable development, digital inclusion, and equitable governance frameworks.

About the United Nations University (UNU)

The United Nations University serves as the academic and research arm of the United Nations system. For more than five decades, UNU has generated policy-relevant research and practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

With researchers and institutes operating across multiple countries, UNU supports evidence-based policymaking related to:

• Sustainable development
• Human security
• Economic development
• Science and technology
• Peace and governance
• Climate and environmental challenges

Through its global network, UNU collaborates with governments, UN agencies, research institutions, and policymakers to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

About UNU Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR)

The United Nations University Centre for Policy Research is one of the leading policy research institutes within the UNU system.

Headquartered in New York with an additional office in Geneva, UNU-CPR focuses on:

• Innovative policy solutions
• Evidence-based research
• International cooperation
• Multilateral governance
• Sustainable development

The Geneva office was established to strengthen engagement with the international policy community and support collaboration between scientific experts and decision-makers.

About the Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI)

The Geneva Science-Policy Interface is an independent platform dedicated to promoting science-informed policymaking.

Established by the University of Geneva with support from the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, GSPI helps bridge the gap between:

• Scientific institutions
• Researchers
• International organizations
• Diplomats
• Policymakers

The organization facilitates meaningful collaboration that enables scientific evidence to inform international policy decisions.

Fellowship Focus: Data Governance for Development

The selected fellow will work on a major international research initiative titled:

“Data Governance for Development: From Asymmetry to Equitable Stewardship.”

This project is being undertaken in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD).

The fellowship will explore how inequalities in data ownership, access, infrastructure, and governance contribute to development challenges worldwide.

Particular attention will be given to:

• Data governance frameworks
• Digital cooperation
• Inclusive technology policies
• Development-focused digital transformation
• Equitable access to digital resources
• Protection of vulnerable and marginalized populations

The research will contribute directly to discussions taking place within the United Nations system regarding the future of data governance.

Why Data Governance Matters

As data becomes one of the world’s most valuable strategic resources, many developing nations face challenges related to:

1. Limited data infrastructure
2. Unequal access to digital technologies
3. Insufficient governance capacity
4. Dependence on external digital platforms
5. Underrepresentation in global digital policymaking

The fellowship seeks to address these challenges by developing policy recommendations that promote:

• Inclusive digital cooperation
• Fair data governance
• Sustainable development
• Digital equity
• Shared prosperity

The research will also examine how data collection practices may unintentionally reinforce inequalities affecting:

• Women
• Rural communities
• Marginalized populations
• Developing countries
• Vulnerable social groups

Responsibilities of the Visiting Fellow

The selected fellow will undertake a broad range of research and policy activities.

1. Research and Analysis

The fellow will:

• Develop an analytical policy report on equitable data governance.
• Conduct research on global digital governance frameworks.
• Examine data-related inequalities affecting developing nations.
• Contribute to the CSTD issues note.
• Develop forward-looking policy recommendations.
• Analyze implementation efforts related to the Global Digital Compact.

2. Science-Policy Engagement

The fellow will:

• Engage with Geneva-based science and technology stakeholders.
• Collaborate with organizations such as:
  • UNCTAD
  • CSTD
  • UN entities
  • Research institutions
• Deliver presentations and policy briefings.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement activities.
• Organize one to two workshops involving diplomats, scientists, and civil society representatives.

3. Knowledge Development

The fellow will:

• Produce an academic article based on fellowship research.
• Contribute to internal knowledge-sharing activities.
• Support the development of future fellowship initiatives.
• Strengthen international science-policy collaboration.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive substantial support, including:

Financial Benefits

• CHF 5,500 monthly remuneration
• CHF 3,000 lump-sum allowance
• Travel costs to Geneva covered
• Return travel home covered
• Visa support provided

Professional Benefits

• Opportunity to work directly with United Nations entities
• Access to international policy discussions
• Exposure to global science-policy networks
• Collaboration with leading researchers and policymakers
• Experience influencing international development agendas
• Opportunity to publish policy and academic research

Networking Benefits

• Direct engagement with diplomats
• Collaboration with UN experts
• Access to Geneva’s international policy ecosystem
• Participation in workshops and global discussions
• Connections with leading development and technology professionals

Required Qualifications

Applicants should possess strong academic and professional backgrounds relevant to the fellowship.

Educational Background

A PhD is strongly preferred in areas such as:

• Economics
• Development Economics
• Business Administration
• Public Policy
• Governance
• Political Economy
• Data Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Quantitative Modeling

Candidates with a Master’s degree and significant relevant professional experience may also be considered.

Experience Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate:

• At least three years of policy-relevant research experience.
• Experience working on science and technology policy issues.
• Strong analytical and writing skills.
• Ability to communicate complex topics to policy audiences.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders.

Additional advantages include:

• Familiarity with data governance frameworks.
• Knowledge of digital development policies.
• Understanding of internet governance processes.
• Experience organizing workshops and stakeholder consultations.
• Knowledge of challenges facing developing countries.

Language Requirements

Applicants must possess:

• Professional-level fluency in English.

Additional UN languages are considered an asset.

Duration and Location

Fellowship Duration

• Six months
• Non-renewable

Location

• Geneva, Switzerland

This is a fully in-person position requiring regular attendance in the office and participation in meetings and events.

Remote work is not permitted.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit:

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

The cover letter should clearly explain:

• Motivation for applying.
• Relevant qualifications and experience.
• Potential contribution to the fellowship.
• Long-term career goals.

Important Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted no later than:

17 June 2026 at 6:00 PM Geneva Time

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, making early submission highly advisable.

Late applications will not be accepted.

Apply Here

Why You Should Apply

This fellowship provides a rare opportunity for Global South researchers and policy professionals to influence international discussions on one of the most important development challenges of the digital era.

By joining UNU-CPR and GSPI, fellows will gain access to world-class research networks, engage directly with international policymakers, and contribute to shaping global approaches to equitable data governance.

For professionals passionate about technology, development, governance, and international cooperation, the UNU Science-Policy Visiting Fellowship represents a unique pathway to advance both career growth and global impact.

For more information, visit the official website. 

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