Visiting PhD Fellowship 2026 at United Nations University-WIDER — Fully Funded Research Opportunity for PhD Students @United Nations University-WIDER

Overview

The UNU-WIDER Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme 2026 provides doctoral students with an opportunity to conduct research at a leading development economics institute, access resources, and collaborate with experts. This fully funded fellowship aims to enhance dissertation quality and career development.

Eligibility

• Currently enrolled in a PhD program.
• Ability to conduct research on developing economies.
• Strong quantitative and/or qualitative analytical skills.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Researchers from other social science disciplines are welcome if their work aligns with development themes.
• Particular encouragement for early-career researchers, female researchers, researchers from developing countries, and PhD candidates at later stages.

Benefits

• A travel grant for travel to and from the applicant’s institution or country of residence.
• Medical insurance during the fellowship period.
• A monthly stipend of EUR 2,070 for living expenses in Helsinki.
• Access to UNU-WIDER’s research resources and facilities.
• Collaboration opportunities with researchers.
• Potential for publication in the WIDER Working Paper Series.

How to Apply

Complete the online application form during the application window. A reference letter from the PhD supervisor must be sent directly to phdreference@wider.unu.edu.

Deadline

There are two application cycles:

• March Cycle: Deadline 31 March. Fellowship period: September to November.
• September Cycle: Deadline 30 September. Fellowship period: March to June (following year).

The online application link becomes active one month before each deadline.