Deadline: 31 March 2026

The United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) has opened applications for the first 2026 call of its Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme. This Programme gives doctoral students the opportunity to utilise the resources and facilities at UNU-WIDER for their PhD dissertation or thesis research on developing economies and to work with the UNU-WIDER researchers in areas of mutual interest.

About

During their time in Helsinki, fellows are expected to prepare one or more research papers and present a seminar on their research findings. They may also have the opportunity to publish their research in the WIDER Working Paper Series. Though the primary focus of UNU-WIDER is economics, researchers in other social sciences may apply.

Eligibility

Applications are welcome from around the world. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a PhD programme and have shown ability to conduct research on developing economies. Applications from suitably qualified early career, female and developing country researchers are particularly encouraged.

Funding

The fellowship includes a travel grant to cover the costs of travel to and from the location of the applicant’s PhD granting institution, medical insurance (for medical and hospital services resulting from sickness and accident during the stay at UNU-WIDER) and a monthly stipend of €2,070 to cover living expenses in Helsinki during the period of their fellowship.

Duration

Fellows typically spend three consecutive months at UNU-WIDER before returning to their home institution.

Supporting information

Additional information can be found here.