DSTI-NRF Policy Fellowship Programme Cohort 2

About this opportunity

The DSTI-NRF Policy Fellowship Programme is run by the National Research Foundation with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. Its second cohort places researchers inside host institutions, where they help develop, analyse and implement policy. The aim is to bring research evidence into decision-making on South Africa’s development challenges. Applicants must be early- or mid-career researchers who earned a doctorate within the past 10 years. They must be South African citizens or permanent residents and be registered or employed at an NRF-recognised research institution, or able to secure one before the grant starts. A small number of non-South African applicants may be considered in exceptional cases. Successful Fellows receive funding for up to 24 months, with an annual award of R240,000 to R320,000. The fellowship combines a host placement with NRF-coordinated policy engagement, training and capacity development, including possible international exposure and cross-sectoral networking. Regular physical attendance may be required. Applicants can choose up to three host institutions and must submit the online application form with a copy of their ID or passport, proof of doctoral qualification and, if employed, written support from their employer. The deadline is 17 November 2026.