Partners for Public Good (PPG) is accepting applications for its six-month, part-time Research Fellowship 2026. The programme supports early-career researchers who want to improve how local governments serve residents.
Also, fellows will work remotely from within the United States. However, they must have access to a major U.S. airport for required travel. The fellowship is expected to begin in October 2026.
PPG Research Fellowship 2026 Benefits
Selected Fellows will receive:
- Pay of $50 per hour.
- Part-time work of 15 to 25 hours each week.
- A six-month research fellowship.
- Flexible scheduling, agreed with PPG before the programme begins.
- Mentorship from PPG staff.
- Coaching calls and research team meetings.
- One in-person research retreat.
- Support to develop publications, policy briefs, and other public-facing work.
- A stronger research portfolio in government and public-policy issues.
Furthermore, benefits required by relevant state or local law may also apply. Moreover, Fellows will gain direct experience with applied research that can help governments improve operations.
PPG Research Fellowship Eligibility criteria
The fellowship welcomes early-career researchers, including:
- Graduate students.
- Postdoctoral researchers.
- Early-career faculty.
- Research or policy staff.
- Professionals with comparable experience.
Also, Applicants may work with a university, think tank, nonprofit, or research organisation. However, independent applicants may also apply.
Applicants must have legal authorisation to work in the United States. PPG does not offer visa sponsorship. Additionally, candidates must be able to complete the weekly hours, meet deliverable deadlines, and travel to the research retreat.
Research focus areas
Applicants can select one or two of the following topics:
- Municipal procurement data.
- Government rules and local implementation.
- AI and emerging technology in government operations.
- Innovative public purchasing.
- Local capacity for stormwater management.
Fellows will work with PPG staff and two other Fellows. They may produce a literature review, dataset, research instrument, policy brief, draft publication, or conference submission.
Applicants can also explore fellowship opportunities on OpportunityLab.
How to apply for the PPG Research Fellowship 2026
Prepare the following:
- A résumé or CV of no more than two pages.
- A letter of interest of up to two pages.
- A work sample that shows your research skills.
In addition, your letter should explain your preferred project, relevant qualifications, and research approach. If you choose two projects, you may submit up to three pages and identify your first choice..
Important deadline
PPG will review applications on a rolling basis. Still, applicants should submit all materials by the close of business on September 28, 2026 for consideration.
Apply through the PPG Research Fellowship application portal
