/ DevLab is pleased to announce the PDRI-DevLab Visiting Fellowship program ){kind=link}
The Fellowship is a semester-long program at the University of Pennsylvania implemented with technical assistance from the Center for Effective Global Action (CEGA).
Host Institution: University of Pennsylvania, USA.
Number of Awards: Several
Study Level: All levels
Nationality: Africans
DETAILS on PDRI-DevLab Visiting Fellowship
The fellowship aims at building capacity for rigorous research on pressing policy challenges facing low- and middle-income countries, by providing training and research opportunities for emerging researchers. Visiting fellows will have the opportunity to audit doctoral-level classes, carry out independent research, present their research, receive mentorship from faculty, and launch collaborative research partnerships with Penn faculty and graduate students.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the PDRI-DevLab Visiting Fellowship Program, applicants must meet the following specific requirements:
- Be a national of a Sub-Saharan African country (following the World Bank regional classification for Sub-Saharan Africa) and be fluent in English.
- Have completed a PhD within the last 8 years, or be enrolled in a PhD program in political science, economics, statistics, sociology, education, epidemiology/public health, or another social science discipline.
- Have a current affiliation with a research institution, university or other research organization in Sub-Saharan Africa, preferably one that supports policy-relevant, quantitative social science research.
- Plan to return to a research institute in Sub-Saharan Africa after the fellowship.
Fellowship Benefits
- Costs of room and board in Philadelphia.
- Health insurance
- Monthly stipend
- Visa fees
- Round-trip economy airfare
Application Procedures
How-to-Apply: Interested applicants for the PDRI-DevLab Visiting Fellowship 2027 are to complete their online application by the application deadline. Applicants are to submit the following required documents:
- Personal Statement (1 page).
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume
- Research Proposal
- Evidence of Leave Approval.
- Transcript of any coursework completed.
- Names of two references
- Working paper or publication (optional)
Application Deadline: 13th December 2026 at 11:59 PM ET.
Visit the Official Website for Further Details
FAQs
1. What is the 2026 PDRI-DEVLAB Visiting Fellowship for African Scholars?
The 2026 PDRI-DEVLAB Visiting Fellowship is a fully funded research opportunity designed for African scholars who are passionate about policy-driven research and development. The fellowship allows selected candidates to collaborate with experts, contribute to impactful research projects, and enhance their academic and professional experience in a global research environment. It typically supports scholars working in fields such as public policy, economics, governance, development studies, and related disciplines.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the PDRI-DEVLAB Visiting Fellowship?
The fellowship is open to African scholars who:
Are citizens of an African country.
Hold a PhD or are currently enrolled in a PhD program (depending on specific program requirements).
Have a strong research background in development-related fields.
Demonstrate a commitment to policy-relevant research that addresses African development challenges.
Meet the host institution’s academic and professional standards.
Applicants are usually expected to show evidence of publications, ongoing research projects, or strong academic recommendations.
3. What does the fellowship funding cover?
The PDRI-DEVLAB Visiting Fellowship is fully funded and generally covers:
Round-trip travel expenses.
Accommodation and living allowance.
Research support and access to institutional resources.
Visa and related administrative costs (where applicable).
The funding ensures that fellows can focus entirely on their research without financial constraints during the fellowship period.
4. How can I apply for the 2026 PDRI-DEVLAB Visiting Fellowship?
Interested applicants should:
Visit the official fellowship application portal.
Complete the online application form.
Submit required documents such as:
Updated CV.
Research proposal.
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Letters of recommendation.
Statement of purpose.
Applicants are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria and submission deadline before applying. Early preparation of documents and a well-structured research proposal can significantly improve your chances of selection.