The Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL) announces the 3rd edition of its Fellows Program
DIAL Fellows Program
The Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL) announces the third edition of its Fellows Program, offering mid-career researchers and practitioners an opportunity to explore frontier issues at the intersection of digital public infrastructure (DPI) and data governance.
The fellowship is designed for curious, passionate professionals eager to advance understanding of how digital systems, services, and governance models shape people’s lives—especially those of marginalized communities.
Fellows bring their own research questions, expertise, and innovative ideas while contributing to DIAL’s mission of improving the design, deployment, and governance of foundational digital systems and data-sharing innovations.
The program supports work aligned with three core thematic priorities: generating greater value from data, assessing the impact of digital systems on diverse populations, and accelerating the adoption of data governance practices that empower people and foster responsible innovation.
The fellowship runs for 6–8 months and provides each selected Fellow with a stipend of USD 5,000. DIAL welcomes applicants from academia, the private sector, and civil society whose work advances digital transformation for public good.
Objectives
Fellows serve as thought leaders and contributors to DIAL’s broader learning agenda. During the program, they will:
- Produce novel research and insights on emerging digital development themes
- Collaborate with DIAL teams to advance shared learning and innovation
- Contribute to best practices in digital public infrastructure and data governance
- Support a community of researchers and practitioners working toward positive digital impact
- Generate outputs that inform policy, strengthen evidence, and shape future initiatives
Selection Criteria
The program seeks mid-career professionals bringing technical expertise and a unique perspective on digital transformation. Ideal candidates have:
- 8–15 years of experience in digital development, policy, data governance, or related fields
- Demonstrated engagement with the intersection of technology and society
- A strong record of high-quality research, policy writing, or analytical publications
- Experience working in or with global majority countries
- Excellent analytical reasoning, writing ability, and communication skills
Program Benefits
Beyond the USD 5,000 stipend, Fellows gain access to DIAL’s global community of digital transformation experts, including:
- Mentorship and guidance from DIAL staff and external experts
- Opportunities for collaboration with partner organizations
- Access to extensive networks, tools, and resources
- Support in communicating, amplifying, and disseminating their work
- Participation in events, convenings, and knowledge-sharing platforms
Illustrative Research Topics
Applicants are encouraged to consider global contexts, examining how digital systems evolve across different economies and governance landscapes. Potential research questions include:
- What drives successful DPI adoption in countries with different income levels, and how can these lessons accelerate progress in Africa?
- How can rapid, low-cost research methods help governments understand citizens’ perceptions and expectations around personal data?
- What institutional and market mechanisms ensure digital ecosystems remain open, competitive, and responsive to public needs?
- How should countries measure the impact of digital public infrastructure beyond efficiency—capturing trust, societal value, and long-term outcomes?
More examples can be found on the DIAL Fellows 2025 page, which outlines previous cohort projects and insights.
Expected Outputs
Fellows produce:
- Two preliminary publications (e.g., expert comments, articles, short papers)
- One final, extensive publication (e.g., research report, case study, policy brief)
Formats may include research papers, policy recommendations, analytical series, or other forms that contribute actionable insights.
Program Timeline (6–8 Months)
- Month 1: Research blueprint development
- Months 2–4: Research and data collection
- Month 3: Preliminary publication #1
- Month 4: Draft compilation and internal review
- Month 5: Preliminary publication #2
- Month 6: Presentation to DIAL and DDX session; final report preparation
- Months 7–8 (optional): Outreach and dissemination activities
How to Apply
Applications are open through December 17, 2025. Required materials include:
- CV/Resume: Highlight relevant qualifications and experience
- Writing Sample or Portfolio: Demonstrates analytical and research skills
- Research Proposal (max 1,500 words): Outlines the research question, methods, expected outcomes, and alignment with DIAL themes
Submission Guidelines:
- PDFs only
- Times New Roman or Arial, size 12
- File naming format: LastName_DocumentType.pdf
Applicants will be notified within four weeks regarding next steps.
Evaluation Process
Proposals are evaluated on:
- Clarity and rigor of the analytical approach
- Subject matter expertise and understanding of relevant trends
- Feasibility and organization of the project plan
- Demonstrated research or policy-writing experience
- Alignment with DIAL’s mission and values
Interviews or additional information may be requested.
Intent, Disclaimer, and IP Policy
Submission does not guarantee selection or contracting. All information must be accurate; inaccuracies may result in termination of any resulting agreement.
DIAL adheres to open access and open licensing requirements aligned with donor expectations, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Work produced under the fellowship must comply with these policies.
Contact
Questions can be sent to fellows@dial.global.
