The Digital Impact Alliance Fellowship Program provides an opportunity for curious, passionate midcareer researchers and practitioners to explore frontier questions related to digital public infrastructure and data governance.
Fellows are invited to bring their own knowledge and research agenda to the Fellowship while contributing to our goals of improving the design, deployment, and governance of foundational digital systems, services, and data sharing innovations. We are eager to support work aligned with our core thematic priorities: 1) creating more value for more people from data; 2) understanding the ways in which digital systems and services impact people, including and especially the most marginalized; and 3) accelerating the adoption of data sharing and governance practices that fuel innovation and empower people.
Requirements
Strong candidates will have:
• 8-15 years of experience in digital development, policy, or research
- Demonstrated interest and work experience at the intersection of technology and society, focusing on topics including (but not limited to) digital public infrastructure and data governance
• A track record of producing high-quality writing, research, or policy briefs
• Experience working in or with global majority countries
• Strong analytical and communication skills
Program benefits:
In addition to a $5,000 stipend, our Research Fellows will have access to our community of experienced digital transformation experts, benefitting from:
• Mentorship and guidance from Digital Impact Alliance staff and industry experts
• Access to our extensive network and resources
• Opportunities for collaboration with partner organizations
• Support in communicating and amplifying their work
• Participation in our events and knowledge-sharing platform
Timeline:
The fellowship will follow a 6-month timeline:
• Month 1: Research blueprint development and refinement
• Months 2-4: In-depth research and data collection
• Month 3: Preliminary publication 1 – expert comment, video, etc.
• Month 4: Draft compilation and internal review
• Month 5: Preliminary publication 2 – expert comment, video, etc.
• Month 6: Presentation to Digital Impact Alliance team and a DDX session in addition to editing and publication of final report, policy brief, etc.
• Months 7-8 (if applicable): Outreach and dissemination activities
Application Procedure:
To apply, please submit the following materials:
• CV/Resume: Provide a current CV or resume that highlights your relevant experience and qualifications.
• Writing Sample or Portfolio: Include a writing sample or portfolio that demonstrates your expertise, particularly in areas relevant to the fellowship.
• Research Proposal (1,500 words maximum): Submit a detailed research proposal outlining your proposed project, including key questions, methodology, expected outcomes, and alignment with our thematic priorities.
Submission Guidelines:
• Document Format: Submit all materials as PDFs.
• Font: Use a standard, professional font like Times New Roman or Arial, size 12.
• File Naming: Name each file as [Your Last Name]_[Document Type].pdf (e.g., Smith_CV.pdf, Smith_Proposal.pdf).
• Applicants will be notified within four weeks if their applications are selected to move forward in the process.
• Please send your completed proposal to fellows@dial.global.
More Info: Digital Impact Alliance Fellowship Program
