IPDS Non-Resident Research Fellowship 2026
About this opportunity
Fully remote research fellowship opportunity offered by the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies for 2026.
The Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) offers a Non-Resident Research Fellowship, a four-month, fully remote opportunity for doctoral researchers and MPhil graduates seeking to bridge academic research with policy-relevant analysis. Fellows collaborate with IPDS research centres, publish under IPDS’s name, and engage with diplomats and practitioners worldwide. This is an honorary, unpaid fellowship focused on producing rigorous, policy-oriented work for a global audience.
What it offers
This fellowship provides published outputs—a policy paper (3,000–5,000 words) and two commentaries (800–1,500 words each)—that strengthen academic and professional profiles. Fellows receive editorial feedback, a certificate of fellowship, and access to IPDS’s network of diplomats, officials, and scholars. The fellowship also offers opportunities to contribute to peer-reviewed journals and participate in online seminars.
Who can apply
The fellowship is open to researchers with:
- A completed MPhil/MS (or equivalent research master’s), current PhD enrolment, or completed doctorate; no taught master’s or bachelor’s degrees accepted.
- A degree in a relevant field (e.g., international relations, political science, peace studies, economics, law, or related disciplines).
- At least two published works (journal articles, policy briefs, working papers, or opinion pieces in recognised outlets).
- Fluent written English of publishable standard.
- Research questions with clear policy relevance, evidence-based arguments, and familiarity with primary sources.
What you'll do
Fellows agree a research plan with their chosen centre, producing:
- A policy paper (3,000–5,000 words) and two commentaries (800–1,500 words each).
- Contributions to centre projects (e.g., trackers, briefings, literature reviews).
- Participation in one online seminar/roundtable and monthly check-ins with the centre lead.
How to apply
Applications are submitted via a form, including:
- A proposal (connecting to a chosen centre’s theme).
- A statement of purpose.
- A CV.
- A writing sample.
- Proof of degree or enrolment.
Applications are reviewed in batches on a rolling basis; shortlisted candidates undergo a 30-minute online interview.
Good to know
- No stipend, travel, or visa support is provided.
- Fellows work remotely from their home country/time zone and retain copyright.
- The fellowship is unpaid and honorary; outputs are published under IPDS’s name.
- No formal application deadline—submissions accepted on a rolling basis.
Key details
What you get
- published policy paper (3,000–5,000 words) and two commentaries (800–1,500 words each) under IPDS’s name
- editorial feedback and rigorous review from IPDS Research Desk
- certificate of fellowship and letter of completion for academic/employment use
- access to IPDS’s network of diplomats, officials, and scholars
- opportunities to contribute to *Journal of Peace and Diplomacy* (peer-reviewed)
- participation in online seminars and potential invitations to IPDS dialogues
- formal recognition and professional platform for academic and policy careers
Documents needed
- proposal connecting to a chosen centre’s theme
- statement of purpose
- CV
- writing sample
- proof of degree or enrolment
How to apply
- Submit a completed application form with the following: proposal, statement of purpose, CV, writing sample, and proof of degree or enrolment.
- Applications are reviewed by the Research Desk and relevant centre, assessing writing sample quality, proposal strength, and fit with centre themes.
- Shortlisted applicants undergo a 30-minute online interview with the centre lead.
- Successful applicants receive a letter of appointment outlining the research plan, outputs, and schedule.
- Complete an introductory call with the centre and Research Desk to align on editorial standards and publication timeline.
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