Applications are now open for the 2026 DIAL Fellowship, a remote, fully funded opportunity designed for mid-career professionals passionate about shaping the future of digital public infrastructure, data governance, and inclusive digital transformation. The fellowship welcomes experts based in the United States and across the world.
This prestigious program supports individuals who are eager to conduct original research, explore emerging global digital trends, and contribute to DIAL’s mission of improving the design, deployment, and governance of digital technologies—especially for communities most often left behind.
What the Fellowship Offers
The DIAL Fellowship allows participants to pursue their own research agenda while actively engaging with DIAL’s global team and partner institutions. Fellows from academia, civil society, the private sector, and related fields are encouraged to apply, especially those with a strong interest in digital transformation and equitable digital ecosystems.
Fellowship Objectives
During the program, fellows will:
- Conduct original research on digital systems, data governance, and emerging technological trends
- Collaborate with DIAL teams and global partners
- Share insights that support inclusive digital transformation
- Develop actionable recommendations and best practices
- Contribute to an international community working on digital public infrastructure
Suggested Research Themes
Applicants are free to propose their own research topics. DIAL also encourages comparative and cross-country approaches. Suggested themes include:
- Key drivers behind successful digital public infrastructure adoption in low- and middle-income countries
- Low-cost methods for understanding public perceptions of data use
- Institutional safeguards to maintain open, competitive digital ecosystems
- Measuring societal impacts of digital public infrastructure beyond operational efficiency
Expected Fellowship Outputs
Each selected fellow will deliver:
- Two preliminary publications (short articles, commentaries, or expert insights)
- One final comprehensive output such as a policy brief, research paper, or case study
Program Timeline
Month 1: Finalization of research plan
Months 2–4: Data collection, fieldwork, and analysis
Month 3: First preliminary publication
Month 4: Draft submission and internal review
Month 5: Second preliminary publication
Month 6: Final presentation and submission of completed output
Months 7–8: Optional outreach and dissemination activities
All submissions must be in PDF format, using professional fonts and clear file naming formats.
Applicants will normally receive a decision within four weeks. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or asked to provide additional information.
Program Details
- Host Institution: Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL)
- Program Type: Fully Funded / Remote
Fellowship Benefits
- USD 5,000 stipend for a 6–8 month research period
- Mentorship and guidance from DIAL experts
- Collaboration opportunities with a global network
- Support for publishing and disseminating research
- Invitations to workshops, events, and learning platforms
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have:
- 8–15 years of experience in digital development, technology, public policy, or research
- Expertise in digital public infrastructure, data governance, or social impacts of digital systems
- A track record of producing high-quality research or policy analysis
- Familiarity with contexts in the Global Majority
- Strong analytical and communication skills
Eligible Countries: All countries
How to Apply
Applications close on 17 December 2025. Applicants must submit:
- CV or resume
- A writing sample or portfolio
- A research proposal (up to 1,500 words) detailing objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and alignment with DIAL’s mission
Check other opportunities:
World Economic Forum Early Careers Program 2026 (Switzerland, India, China, Japan)
Fully Funded: Apply for the 2026 Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme
