DSTI-NRF Policy Fellowship Programme | Call for Applications

South Africa’s National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) invite researchers to apply for Cohort 2 of the Policy Fellowship Programme. Fellows work inside host institutions to shape policy with research evidence. Applications close on 17 November 2026.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organizations: National Research Foundation (NRF) and DSTI
• Funding: R240,000 to R320,000 per year
• Duration: Up to 24 months
• Format: Host institution placement, plus NRF policy engagement and training
• Eligibility: Early- and mid-career researchers with a doctorate earned within 10 years
• Deadline: 17 November 2026

Focus Areas

• Science, technology, and innovation policy
• Energy, climate change, and just transition
• Digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies
• Urban development and local government
• Health and public health systems
• Agriculture, food systems, and rural development
• Environment and natural resources
• Social development, education, and human capital
• Public administration and institutional reform
• International relations and science diplomacy

About the Fellowship

The program links research and policymaking. It places researchers in designated host institutions. There, fellows contribute to policy development, analysis, and implementation. They gain practical policy experience and support evidence-based decisions on South Africa’s development challenges.

Cohort 2 builds on the 2024 pilot. Fellows also join NRF-coordinated engagement, training, and capacity development. Opportunities include international exposure and cross-sector networking. Applicants choose up to three preferred host institutions. Hosts may require regular physical attendance, so consider their locations.

What Fellows Receive

• Annual funding of R240,000 to R320,000
• A placement at a host institution
• Policy engagement, training, and capacity development
• International exposure and cross-sector networking
• Fellows must meet defined responsibilities, deliverables, and reporting duties.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet these requirements:

• Hold a doctorate earned within the past 10 years
• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
• Be registered or employed at an NRF-recognized research institution, or secure that affiliation before the grant starts
• Non-South Africans may apply in exceptional, well-justified cases. They cannot exceed 10 percent of all recipients. Eligible institutions include public universities, science councils, museums, and national facilities.

Required Materials

Attach these items in PDF format:

• A copy of your ID or passport
• Proof of your doctoral qualification
• Written employer support, for employed applicants, confirming their availability for the placement, training, and travel

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Complete the online application form and attach your documents. A competitive merit review follows. It may include interviews with potential hosts. The NRF accepts no late applications. Send questions to #339966;">#339966;" href="mailto:ScienceNetworks@nrf.ac.za">ScienceNetworks@nrf.ac.za.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://forms.gle/gUDuvrmPRFeuRmbK9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This fellowship funds researchers to bring evidence into South African policy. Eligible researchers should assemble their documents and apply before 17 November 2026.

#008000; text-decoration: underline;">READ MORE