Software Sustainability Institute Fellowship Programme 2027: Applications Now Open
The Software Sustainability Institute (SSI) has opened applications for its 2027 Fellowship Programme, offering an exciting opportunity for researchers, research software engineers, developers, data specialists, open science advocates and community leaders who are passionate about improving the way software is developed, maintained and used in research.
The programme is designed for individuals who are already contributing to research software, digital research or open science and want to expand their influence, develop their leadership skills and connect with an international community of like-minded professionals.
About the Software Sustainability Institute Fellowship
The Software Sustainability Institute is dedicated to improving the sustainability, accessibility and impact of software used in research and academia. Its work brings together researchers, developers, institutions and other stakeholders to promote better software practices and strengthen the wider research ecosystem.
The SSI Fellowship Programme provides a platform for professionals who want to become advocates for sustainable research software and digital research practices. Fellows join an international network where they can exchange knowledge, develop collaborations and contribute to discussions about the future of research software.
The programme recognises that modern research increasingly depends on software, data and computational tools. Ensuring that these resources are reliable, maintainable, accessible and reusable is therefore essential to producing high-quality and reproducible research.
Who Can Apply?
The 2027 Fellowship Programme is aimed at people who have a strong interest in improving research through software, data and digital technologies.
Potential applicants include:
- Researchers who rely on software as part of their research
- Research Software Engineers
- Software developers working in research environments
- Data scientists and data specialists
- Digital scholarship practitioners
- Open science advocates
- Community builders
- Research and technology leaders
- Professionals promoting sustainable software and computational research practices
Applicants should be able to demonstrate their commitment to creating positive change within their communities. Previous experience with research software does not necessarily mean simply writing code; individuals contributing to better research practices, communities, infrastructure and digital methods may also find the programme relevant.
What Does the Fellowship Offer?
Becoming an SSI Fellow provides opportunities for professional development, networking and leadership.
Fellows become part of a community of professionals working to improve research software practices across different disciplines and institutions. This network can provide opportunities to share experiences, establish collaborations and learn from people facing similar challenges.
The programme also supports leadership development. Fellows are expected to contribute to their communities and advocate for improvements in research software sustainability, open research and digital scholarship.
Other potential benefits include increased professional visibility, opportunities to influence research software practices, collaboration with experts across different disciplines and experience in community building.
The Fellowship can therefore be valuable not only for technical professionals but also for individuals interested in research policy, digital innovation, open science and the development of sustainable research ecosystems.
Application Process
Applicants are required to complete an official Fellowship application form. The application provides an opportunity to explain their experience, achievements, community involvement and proposed Fellowship activities.
Candidates must also submit a screencast video. This component allows applicants to communicate their ideas, motivation and vision and demonstrate how they would contribute to the SSI Fellowship community.
Applicants should carefully review the programme’s eligibility requirements, shortlisting criteria, selection-day assessment criteria, Fellowship terms and conditions and Code of Conduct before submitting their applications.
Shortlisted candidates will participate in an Online Selection Day, providing an additional opportunity to demonstrate their suitability for the programme.
Important Dates
Applications for the 2027 Fellowship Programme opened on 10 August 2026 and will close on 5 October 2026.
Key dates include:
- Applications open: 10 August 2026
- Launch webinar: 20 August 2026
- Applications close: 5 October 2026
- Shortlist confirmation: 3 November 2026
- Online Selection Day: 12 November 2026
- Fellows announced: 9 December 2026
- Fellowship period: 1 January 2027 to 31 March 2028
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their applications early rather than waiting until the deadline.
Why This Fellowship Matters
Research is becoming increasingly dependent on software and digital infrastructure. From data analysis and modelling to computational experiments and research dissemination, software plays an important role across almost every academic discipline.
However, poorly maintained or undocumented software can create significant challenges for researchers. Sustainable software practices can help improve reproducibility, collaboration, accessibility and the long-term value of research.
The SSI Fellowship Programme provides an opportunity for professionals to help address these challenges while developing their own leadership and professional networks.
How to Apply
Individuals interested in the Software Sustainability Institute Fellowship Programme 2027 should review the official application requirements and submit their application before the 5 October 2026 deadline.
Visit the official SSI Fellowship application page
This fellowship could be particularly valuable for researchers, developers, data professionals and open science advocates looking to strengthen their impact and contribute to a more sustainable and collaborative future for research software.
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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
