University of Chicago Harris Applied Data Fellowship (ADF) Opens Rolling Applications for Data and Policy Professionals 2026 @Unknown

Applications are now open for the Applied Data Fellowship (ADF) at Harris School of Public Policy, offering aspiring data professionals and policy innovators an opportunity to work on mission-driven projects with leading public sector and nonprofit organizations.

Hosted by the University of Chicago, the fellowship is designed for individuals passionate about using data, technology, and analytical tools to drive systemic social impact.

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis, allowing candidates to apply year-round for upcoming fellowship cohorts.

What is the Applied Data Fellowship?

The Applied Data Fellowship is a one-year professional fellowship that places participants directly within partner organizations working on high-impact public policy and operational challenges.

ADF Fellows serve as full-time staff equivalents embedded in organizations where they help solve complex problems through data analysis, strategic implementation, and technology-driven solutions.

The fellowship brings together professionals and graduate students from disciplines such as:

• Public Policy
• Data Science
• Economics
• Computer Science
• Social Sciences
• Statistics
• Related analytical and technical fields

The program is aimed at individuals who combine technical expertise with a commitment to mission-driven work and public impact.

Fellowship Roles and Areas of Expertise

Applied Data Fellows contribute in a variety of roles depending on organizational needs and project alignment.

Key fellowship tracks include:

• Data Scientist / Analyst
• Program Manager
• Data Strategist
• Operations and AI Specialist

Participants are expected to work with a range of modern analytical and operational tools, including:

• Python
• R
• SQL
• Tableau
• Power BI
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence systems
• GIS technologies
• Data Infrastructure platforms
• AI/ML Operations tools

The fellowship emphasizes both technical problem-solving and operational leadership.

Professional Development and Mentorship Opportunities

In addition to hands-on project experience, the fellowship includes extensive professional development and training components designed to strengthen fellows’ technical and leadership capacities.

ADF Fellows receive access to:

• One-on-one mentorship from experienced practitioners
• Weekly upskilling workshops
• Fireside chats with leaders in technology, government, and research
• Demonstrations of emerging AI and data tools

The program combines workplace learning with structured career development opportunities to help fellows advance into long-term leadership positions in data and public policy.

Strong Career Outcomes for Fellows

According to the program, the Applied Data Fellowship has placed more than 200 fellows across eight cohorts.

Approximately 70 percent of fellows are retained full-time by their host organizations after completing the fellowship.

Graduates of the program have gone on to careers in:

• Government and public sector institutions
• Strategy consulting firms
• Nonprofit organizations and foundations
• Research and academic institutions
• Technology and data-focused industries

The fellowship is increasingly recognized as a launchpad for professionals seeking impact-driven careers at the intersection of data, technology, and public service.

Competitive Selection Process

The fellowship uses a highly selective application and matching process to identify candidates whose technical expertise aligns with active partner projects.

The selection process includes several stages:

Rolling Application Review

Applications are accepted throughout the year with no fixed deadline. Candidates submit:

• Technical background information
• Professional portfolio
• Mission-driven interests summary
• Relevant academic and work experience

Strategic Profile Review

Unlike many traditional fellowship programs, not all qualified candidates are interviewed immediately.

Applicants are invited to interviews only when their profiles align closely with multiple active partner projects.

Interview Sprint

Once selected for interviews, the process typically concludes within two weeks.

Applicants may receive one of three outcomes:

• Yes – Fellowship offer extended
• No – Application unsuccessful
• Maybe – Strong profile retained for future matching opportunities

Matching Phase

After accepting an offer, fellows enter a matching process where they are paired with host organizations.

This process generally takes between six and eight weeks depending on organizational timelines and project availability.

Fellowship Timeline at a Glance

Key timelines for the Applied Data Fellowship include:

• Applications: Open year-round
• Interview process: Approximately two weeks once invited
• Matching process: Six to eight weeks
• Fellowship duration: One year full-time

Because applications are reviewed continuously, prospective candidates are encouraged to apply early to maximize partner matching opportunities.

Why the Applied Data Fellowship Stands Out

The Applied Data Fellowship reflects the growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and real-world policy implementation.

As governments, nonprofits, and institutions increasingly rely on data and AI systems to improve decision-making, the need for mission-driven analytical talent continues to grow globally.

ADF distinguishes itself by focusing not only on technical excellence but also on operational leadership, systems thinking, and public impact.

The program offers fellows a unique opportunity to apply advanced analytical skills to meaningful social challenges while gaining direct experience inside mission-driven organizations.

For aspiring data professionals interested in public service, AI adoption, and social impact careers, the Applied Data Fellowship provides a practical pathway into the rapidly evolving intersection of technology and policy.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel

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

JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW