Non-Resident Fellowship Program in USA | Call for Applications

The Center for Democracy & Technology is recruiting Non-Resident Fellows. This program connects established academics directly with CDT’s policy work. Fellows bring expertise across law, computer science, and political science. This engagement bridges academic research with public-interest technology policy work. Importantly, this is a volunteer position without financial compensation involved.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT)
• Location: Washington, D.C., with remote participation allowed
• Duration: Two-year commitment
• Compensation: Unpaid, volunteer position
• Application Deadline: September 18, 2026

Focus Areas

• Privacy and data protection policy
• Artificial intelligence governance
• Free expression and online platform governance
• Competition policy and online safety

About the Program

This fellowship connects CDT staff with leading academic researchers nationwide. Fellows represent diverse fields including sociology, economics, and media studies broadly. Their expertise helps inform CDT’s ongoing policy research and advocacy work. Fellows also help amplify CDT’s voice within their own professional networks. This creates meaningful two-way exchange between academia and practical policy work. The current cohort addresses pressing issues at technology’s intersection with democracy.

What Fellows Will Do

Fellows participate in policy strategy calls and topical briefings regularly. They’re encouraged to contribute original writing to CDT’s blog directly. Throughout their term, fellows complete at least two specific engagement activities. This might include co-authoring content or speaking at CDT-branded events. Fellows may also collaborate on joint research projects with CDT teams. All fellows receive a formal memorandum outlining expectations for their term.

What CDT Provides

Fellows receive a structured orientation explaining program expectations upfront. CDT shares regular updates on emerging technology and policy developments. Fellows gain invitations to select CDT public events, including its Annual Dinner. Throughout the fellowship, fellows engage directly with CDT’s in-house policy experts.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must hold a full-time academic position at their institution. A terminal degree, like a PhD or JD, is generally expected. Candidates should have published significant peer-reviewed research previously. Prior experience with U.S. or EU tech policy issues matters considerably. Current students and postdoctoral researchers are not eligible to apply.

Required Materials

Applicants submit a full CV alongside a relevant writing sample. A cover letter should explain genuine interest and relevant qualifications clearly. All materials should combine into a single PDF document submission.

How to Apply

Submit your complete application through CDT’s official careers portal. For questions, contact #339966;">#339966;" href="mailto:research@cdt.org">research@cdt.org directly.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://cdt.org/careers/#op-704482-nonresident-fellows-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship offers genuine intellectual engagement and visibility within influential tech policy circles, though prospective applicants should understand clearly that it involves no financial compensation. It suits established academics whose institutional position already provides their primary income and who seek meaningful policy impact alongside their research.

Given the significant two-year time commitment expected, interested academics should carefully weigh this volunteer obligation before applying by the September 18 deadline.

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