Organisation Name:

United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER)

Application Deadline:

31 March 2026

About Organisation

The United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) is a leading global research institute dedicated to economic analysis and policy advice aimed at promoting sustainable and equitable development. Established in Helsinki, Finland, it is the first research center of the United Nations University. UNU-WIDER operates as a unique blend of a think tank, research institute, and UN agency, producing high-quality research and providing policy recommendations to governments and international organizations. Its work focuses on poverty reduction, inequality, and development economics, supporting evidence-based policymaking worldwide.

About the Grant

The Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme offers doctoral students an opportunity to conduct research at UNU-WIDER in Helsinki. Fellows spend approximately three months at the institute, collaborating with researchers and utilizing its academic resources to advance their dissertation work on developing economies. During the fellowship, participants prepare research papers and present seminars on their findings. Fellows may also contribute to the WIDER Working Paper Series, gaining global academic visibility. The programme encourages collaboration, strengthens research capacity, and supports innovative scholarship that contributes to development economics and policy discussions.

Who can Apply?

Applicants must be enrolled in a PhD programme and demonstrate strong research ability related to developing economies. While the fellowship primarily targets economics researchers, candidates from other social science disciplines may apply if their work aligns with development economics themes. Applicants must be fluent in written and spoken English and possess strong quantitative and/or qualitative analytical skills. The programme particularly encourages applications from early-career researchers, women scholars, and researchers from developing countries. Preference is often given to candidates in the later stages of their PhD who are working actively on their dissertation research.

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted online through the UNU-WIDER application system during the designated submission periods each year. Applicants must complete the online form and provide relevant academic and research details related to their doctoral work. The application portal opens on 1 March and 1 September annually, and only applications submitted before the stated deadlines will be considered for the fellowship programme.