Deadline: August 16, 2026
Applications are open for the International Science Council (ISC) Civic Science Fellow Program 2026. The International Science Council (ISC) is seeking applications from outstanding early- to mid-career researchers to serve as a Civic Science Fellow with a focus on science communication.
Hosted virtually by the ISC, the 18-month Fellowship provides an opportunity to explore how multilateral organizations can communicate evidence more effectively in international policy processes and strengthen the role of science in multilateral decision-making. Working at the interface of science, policy and communication, the Fellow will work with the ISC Secretariat, its global membership and international partners to analyze current practices, develop practical guidance and test new approaches to communicating scientific evidence in complex policy environments.
Responsibilities
The Fellow will contribute to a programme of work that includes:
- Mapping existing science communication practices, channels and audiences across selected international partners.
- Conducting research on the information ecosystem in which scientific evidence is communicated and the factors that influence how science is communicated, interpreted and used in international policy contexts.
- Identifying barriers and enablers for the uptake of scientific evidence in decision-making processes.
- Analysing how evolving digital information environments, including misinformation and disinformation, shape engagement with scientific evidence.
- Drawing on communication, behavioural and social science to identify effective approaches for communicating evidence to diverse audiences.
- Developing practical guidance and resources to improve communication across science–society interfaces for scientific and multilateral organizations.
- Supporting the piloting and evaluation of communication approaches through selected ISC initiatives and partnerships.
- Producing high-quality analytical reports and publications.
- Supporting outreach and engagement of relevant academic and practitioner networks.
Funding
- A monthly stipend of about USD $5,000. This Fellowship is fully funded through the Rita Allen Civic Science Fellows program.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD (or expect to have completed one before the Fellowship start date) in a relevant discipline.
- Be able to undertake the Fellowship on a full-time basis for its full 18-month duration from September 2026 with a letter of support expected from the organization where the Fellow may be currently employed. It will be the responsibility of the Fellow to ensure that she/he can commit for the full duration of the fellowship and to make the necessary arrangements with his/her employer as necessary.
- Sign a tripartite collaboration agreement with the Rita Allen Foundation and the ISC. The ISC will also enter into a contractual arrangement directly with the Fellow and the stipend will normally be paid to the Fellow directly.
- Hold a valid passport and be able to undertake international travel as required by the Fellowship.
- Be eligible to obtain visas for international travel where necessary. The Fellowship will involve occasional travel to international meetings and events, including in countries such as the United States.
- Be available weekly on Tuesdays for 18 months from noon to 2:00 pm ET to participate in Learning Labs with the other Civic Science Fellows of the cohort, convened by the Rita Allen Foundation.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong track record of high-quality research and publications relevant to the Fellowship.
- Demonstrated expertise in science communication, particularly in relation to public policy, international governance or the science–policy interface.
- Experience working with, or advising, governments, international organizations, scientific organizations or other policy actors
- A proven ability to translate research into practical guidance, tools or recommendations for policy and practice.
- Excellent written and spoken English, with excellent communication and facilitation skills.
- The ability to work independently while engaging effectively with a wide range of international stakeholders.
- Experience leading interdisciplinary or international research collaborations, designing capacity-building activities, or working in multilateral contexts would be highly desirable.
Application
For more information, visit ISC Civic Science Fellow.
