About the programme
Second cohort of a policy fellowship that embeds researchers in designated host institutions to contribute to policy development, analysis and implementation. Fellows also join NRF-coordinated policy engagement, training, capacity development, international exposure and cross-sectoral networking. Applicants choose up to three preferred host institutions, and regular physical attendance may be required.
Duration: Up to 24 months
Eligibility
- Doctoral degree obtained within the past 10 years
- South African citizen or permanent resident (non-South Africans considered only in exceptional cases, capped at 10% of fellows)
- Registered or employed (permanent or fixed-term) at an NRF-recognised research institution, or able to secure such an affiliation before the grant starts
- Early- or mid-career status
- Sign in to check these against your background.
Needs a third party. Currently employed applicants need written confirmation from their employer or institution supporting participation and availability.
What you will need
- ID/Passport copy
- Proof of doctoral qualification
- Written employer or institution confirmation of support and availability (currently employed applicants)
How to apply
- Complete the online application form
- Attach required PDF documents
- Competitive merit review, possibly including interviews with potential host institutions
Applications are submitted on National Research Foundation (NRF) in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)’s own site. Open Doors helps you prepare; it is not the official application portal.
From people who applied
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Source and verification
- Official source
- National Research Foundation (NRF) in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) · Application
- Last checked
- 12 Nov 2026, read automatically from the official page
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