UvA IAS Policy Fellowship
In the context of the IAS theme governance of complexity, we are launching a special fellowship modality: the Policy Fellowship.
Climate change, inequality, health, polarization, changing international orders: the challenges we face are numerous. Policymakers are not only confronted with complex issues, in a multi-actor, multi-level and multi-issue world but the governance of these problems has itself become a complex issue. To understand and to promote the interaction between science, research, and policymaking, governments, industries, non-governmental organisations and academia need to collaborate and design new modes of governance, regulation and decision-making that stimulate imagination and cooperation.
Who can apply?
Policy Fellows are:
- professionals and practitioners who work in the public sector, industry or non-profit environment and are involved in (applied) research;
- engaged/interested in research activities within IAS’ mission and actively connecting with, contributing to and benefiting from IAS’ research community;
- seconded to IAS by their employer for the duration of the policy fellowship, typically for at least 6 months (for the sending organization employing the Policy Fellow, no additional costs are incurred).
What we offer?
- a vibrant community with many opportunities to develop novel research projects and methodologies, and to establish partnerships and networks;
- a regular (open) workspace at IAS;
- participation in community lunches and events;
- organisational support to (co)organize and publicize activities at IAS (such as workshops, think tanks, seminars);
- small amount of seed funding to support their project (e.g. for student assistance, inviting international guests, publication support).
What we expect
The IAS consists of a curiosity-driven research community.
In this atmosphere, Policy Fellows will:
- work on research methodologies, explore new research topics and/or establish new networks and partnerships;
- be curious to learn more from current cutting-edge research projects, to share their own expertise with our community, and to be willing to explore new forms of collaboration between academia, governments, businesses, and societal organisations;
- be present at IAS on a regular basis and participate in IAS social and scientific activities;
- contribute to IAS’ programming (e.g. through a kick-off);
- acknowledge IAS in any publications resulting from the policy fellowship;
- write a short blogpost within four weeks after the end of the policy fellowship.
Selection criteria
- Co-application with external stakeholder that employs the fellow (e.g. Ministry, Municipality, Industry, Non-profit, Museum)
- Affinity/experience with research (PhD is not a requirement)
- Availability to spend time at IAS (at a minimum 1 day a week)
- Ability to bridge research and practice with likely impact beyond the policy fellowship
- Clear embedding in ongoing/to be developed IAS research activities, matching with IAS community members possible
Process and Timelines
Policy fellowship applications are assessed by the IAS Board of Associates, who advises the IAS Director. While we welcome applications at any moment throughout the year, ideal starting dates for policy fellowships at IAS are February and September. Please note, that IAS is not able to host international fellows during the summer break. Kindly consider this in your planning and timeline.
Our Board of Associates meets three times a year to assess applications: 13 February, 15 May and 16 October. To ensure sufficient time for evaluation, we require that applications be submitted at least 10 working days before the meeting.
To apply, please send an email to ias@uva.nl and include:
- the application form;
- CV;
- a letter of support from your employer/supervisor confirming your availability during the fellowship period.
Download the policy fellowship application form
