Partnership for Public Good (PPG) Research Fellowship 2026: Paid Policy Research Opportunity

The Partnership for Public Good (PPG) is offering a Research Fellowship for 2026, targeting early-career researchers interested in improving government effectiveness. This six-month, paid fellowship provides an opportunity to conduct policy-relevant research, analyze data, and co-author publications on critical public procurement and local government topics. Applications close on September 28, 2026.

Application Closing Date: September 28, 2026
Location: Remote (with one in-person retreat)
Programme Duration: Six months
Stipend: $50 per hour (15-25 hours per week)
Minimum Qualification: Early-career researcher (graduate student, postdoc, early-career faculty, research/policy staff, or equivalent experience)
Opportunity Type: Fellowship

About the Partnership for Public Good (PPG) Research Fellowship

The PPG Research Fellowship is a structured, project-based program designed to support individuals looking to deepen their understanding of public sector challenges. Fellows will focus on one of five high-priority topics related to public procurement and local government operations. The program aims to help governments achieve better outcomes for residents by providing them with evidence-based research.

During the six-month period, fellows will work independently on their chosen research topic, with guidance from PPG staff and collaboration with two other fellows. The fellowship includes regular professional development, coaching calls, and research team meetings. Fellows will receive support in transforming their research into publications, policy briefs, and other public-facing materials.

This fellowship is ideal for those who want to contribute directly to improving government effectiveness and build their research portfolio. It offers a chance to gain practical experience in policy research and analysis within a supportive environment.

About Partnership for Public Good (PPG)

The Partnership for Public Good (PPG) is an organization dedicated to improving government effectiveness. They work to help governments deliver better results for their residents by providing research and analysis on critical public sector issues. PPG focuses on areas like public procurement and local government operations, aiming to strengthen the evidence base for reform.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The fellowship focuses on specific research areas related to public procurement and local government operations. While specific project titles are not listed here, applicants will choose from pre-determined high-priority topics. These topics are designed to address current challenges in government effectiveness and policy implementation.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will benefit from a paid research experience that contributes to their professional development. Key offerings include:

• Paid Research Work: Fellows will be paid $50 per hour for working 15 to 25 hours per week.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Dedicated support from PPG staff and collaboration with fellow researchers.
• Publication Opportunities: Co-authoring publications, policy briefs, and other public-facing outputs.
• Professional Development: Regular coaching calls and research team meetings.
• Networking: Opportunities to connect with other early-career researchers and policy professionals.
• Contribution to Policy: Directly contributing to research that aims to improve government effectiveness.

Programme Duration and Location

The PPG Research Fellowship is a six-month program. While the fellowship is primarily remote, allowing for flexibility in scheduling, fellows are required to attend one in-person research retreat. Specific details regarding the location of the retreat will be communicated to selected fellows.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the PPG Research Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be an early-career researcher. This includes graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, early-career faculty, research or policy staff, or professionals with comparable experience.
• Be interested in improving government effectiveness.
• Be able to commit 15-25 hours per week to the fellowship.
• Be able to attend one in-person research retreat.
• Maintain affiliation with a university, think tank, nonprofit, or other research or policy organization if applicable, provided they can meet the program’s commitments. Applicants without such affiliation are also welcome.

Competencies Required

While specific competencies are not explicitly listed, the nature of the fellowship suggests the following skills and qualities would be beneficial:

• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Ability to collect and analyze data using rigorous methods.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new research challenges.
• A professional attitude and commitment to meeting deadlines.
• Interest in public policy and government operations.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for early-career researchers who are passionate about making a tangible impact on public service delivery. If you are a graduate student, postdoc, or a professional in research or policy looking to gain hands-on experience in policy-relevant research and contribute to improving how governments operate, this opportunity is for you. It suits individuals eager to develop their research skills, build their publication record, and work on meaningful projects that can influence real-world outcomes.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• Resume/CV: No more than 2 pages.
• Letter of Interest: No more than 2 pages (or up to 3 pages if interested in two projects). This letter should address:
• Which one or two projects you are interested in and why.
• Why you are qualified for the project.
• How you would approach the work.
• Work Sample: This could be a published or under-review research publication, or another product that demonstrates your skills and expertise.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply for the Partnership for Public Good (PPG) Research Fellowship 2026 by following these steps:

• Visit the application portal via the provided link.
• Prepare your Resume/CV, Letter of Interest, and Work Sample.
• Complete the online application form accurately.
• Upload all required documents.
• Ensure all personal details and application information are correct before submitting.
• Submit your application by the closing date of September 28, 2026.

Click here to apply for the PPG Research Fellowship 2026

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.
• Ensure your application is complete and all documents are submitted correctly.
• Applications must be submitted by the closing date of September 28, 2026.
• Be prepared to discuss your project interests and approach during the application process.

Closing Date

The closing date for the Partnership for Public Good (PPG) Research Fellowship 2026 is September 28, 2026.

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