Apply Now: DC Fellows Program

Application deadline: October 22, 2025 (applications are considered on a rolling basis)
Fellowship period: November 1, 2025 to April 30, 2026
Location: We welcome applicants from all countries, provided they are currently based in Washington, DC.
Commitment: The fellowship is part-time and hybrid, offering flexible hours. Fellows should plan to be in the office one to two times per month for meetings and check-ins.
To apply please fill out this form. 

About the Program
The Portulans Institute’s Fellowship Program provides a unique opportunity for graduate students and young professionals to pursue independent research related to technology and innovation, participate in international policy dialogues, and form a lasting professional network. Fellows work independently to develop their own research initiative within any of Portulans Institute’s focus areas. This independent project can include efforts such as policy research, program development, case studies, training courses or workshops, and more. Fellows will have the opportunity to present and showcase their work through a community symposium at the conclusion of the program. On an opportunity basis, Fellows may also be able to assist with existing projects by joining a working group. 
This year, the Portulans Institute is seeking two motivated Fellows based in the Washington, DC area to support the development of our publications and research initiatives. The Fellows will contribute to research, drafting, and editing, and will have the opportunity to be credited as contributors in the Network Readiness Index and the Global Talent and Competitiveness Index. They will also help track media coverage and events and collaborate closely with the Portulans team and subject matter experts to ensure our work informs and engages policymakers and wider audiences.
Stipend: $1,000. Fellows are encouraged to apply for external funding to extend their research beyond the year-long fellowship. Fellows will have the freedom to manage their project and financial resources acquired.
In addition to compensation, the Portulans Institute can also provide credit for work-based courses or internship credits, as required by universities.
As a fellow, you will gain…

  • Access to our network of policymakers, academics, and thought leaders that can be leveraged to inform dialogues and research projects.
  • Access to our content distribution channels to publish your own research aligned with the Institute’s focus areas. 
  • Opportunities to participate in ongoing research by joining a working group or project. 
  • One-on-one mentoring sessions and dialogues with experts in our network.
  • Opportunities to join Portulans Institute at events (dependent on location) or receive support in organizing your own event.

What we’re looking for:

  • Completion of a bachelor’s degree in technology, innovation, data science, public policy, business, economics, communications, or a related field.
  • At least three years of relevant work or research experience in technology, innovation, data science, public policy, business, economics, management, or a related field.
  • Experience with social media management and/or graphic design is a strong plus and should be highlighted in the CV.
  • Strong interpersonal and communications skills, and excellent writing skills.
  • Ability to convey technology and policy concepts to audiences who may not be familiar with them. 
  • Track record of success in taking initiative and leading projects.
  • Fluency in English. Working knowledge of a second language is considered a plus.
  • Ability to attend meetings to share highlights and progress updates related to individual research outputs and joint activities. 
  • Commitment to the Portulans Institute mission and focus areas.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with desk research, literature reviews, and data synthesis on digital transformation, AI, innovation, and global talent and competitiveness.
  • Draft and edit content for reports, briefs, and related publications, with opportunities for co-authorship/collaboration credit.
  • Collaborate with subject matter experts to adapt complex insights from data, reports, and case studies into accessible formats for policymakers.
  • Monitor relevant media coverage and track key policy and research events.
  • Support outreach efforts to expand the reach and impact of Portulans publications.
  • Identify and attend in-person events in Washington, D.C. on technology and innovation policy, representing the Portulans Institute and sharing relevant insights with the team.
  • (Preferred) Contribute to data visualizations and social media graphics to communicate findings effectively to broad audiences.

 
To apply please fill out this form. 
If you have any questions, contact us at info@portulansinstitute.org
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