Submissions open for the ODI Fellowship Scheme

The ODI Fellowship Scheme offers fully funded two-year placements for young professionals in global development, providing opportunities to work within government ministries and agencies worldwide. Fellows gain hands-on experience in economic, statistical, and policy roles while strengthening institutional capacity and advancing their careers in development and public sector organizations.

About the Scheme

The ODI Fellowship Scheme places young professionals in government ministries and agencies in low- and middle-income countries to support public sector capacity building. The scheme strengthens government institutions, responds to country-specific development needs, and provides practical exposure to international policy and development systems.

Objectives of the Fellowship

• Strengthen government capacity and institutional effectiveness

• Address country-specific policy challenges through tailored solutions

• Transfer technical and analytical skills to host institutions

• Support professional and personal development of fellows

• Promote international exchange and knowledge sharing among civil servants

• Facilitate future career opportunities in global development and public service

Placement Opportunities

Fellows are typically placed in:

• Central institutions: Ministries of Finance, Planning, Revenue Authorities, Central Banks, National Statistical Offices

• Sectoral ministries: Trade, Agriculture, Environment, Health, Education

• Government-affiliated research institutions or regional organizations

Roles may include:

• Economic analysis and forecasting

• Statistical data collection, modeling, and interpretation

• Policy evaluation and planning support

• Administrative coordination and institutional support

Fellowship Benefits

• Duration: Two years

• Annual Salary: £32,600 net (Year 1), £34,600 net (Year 2)

• Housing Allowance: Varies by host country cost of living

• Additional Benefits: Employment benefits associated with the host government placement

• Hands-on experience in policy systems, public service delivery, and development assistance

• International exchange and networking opportunities with civil servants and global development professionals

Who Can Apply?

• Candidates of all nationalities

• Holders of a master’s degree or PhD in economics, statistics, or related disciplines

• Relevant postgraduate specializations: development economics, international economics, agricultural economics, environmental economics, health economics, econometrics, or statistics

• Conditional offers may be made to candidates still completing postgraduate studies, contingent on degree completion

How to Apply

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet educational and professional requirements

2. Prepare Application: Submit academic transcripts, CV, and statement of interest

3. Conditional Offers: If still completing studies, confirm expected degree completion date

4. Selection Process: Candidates are evaluated based on academic qualifications, technical skills, and potential for contributing to government capacity

5. Placement Assignment: Fellows are matched to host ministries or agencies based on skills and country needs

Why It Matters

The ODI Fellowship Scheme provides a unique opportunity to:

• Gain practical experience addressing real institutional challenges in government

• Develop expertise in policy systems, public service delivery, and development economics

• Enhance career prospects in government, international organizations, NGOs, academia, and private sector development roles

• Contribute directly to strengthening governance and institutional effectiveness in host countries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without the required postgraduate degree or relevant specialization

• Failing to demonstrate interest in government and development work

• Ignoring host country or institutional needs when tailoring application materials

• Submitting incomplete academic transcripts or references

• Not considering the conditional offer requirements if still completing studies

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible to apply? Candidates of all nationalities with a master’s or PhD in economics, statistics, or related disciplines.

2. How long is the fellowship? Two years.

3. What is the salary? £32,600 net in Year 1 and £34,600 net in Year 2, plus a housing allowance.

4. Where are fellows placed? In central or sectoral government institutions, research organizations, or regional agencies worldwide.

5. Can candidates still completing their degree apply? Yes, conditional offers may be made pending successful completion.

6. What kind of work do fellows do? Economic analysis, statistical work, policy evaluation, and administrative coordination.

7. What career benefits do fellows gain? Hands-on development experience, international exchange, professional networking, and enhanced career opportunities in government and global development.

Conclusion

The ODI Fellowship Scheme is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for early-career professionals to contribute to global development through government placements. Fellows gain valuable technical skills, practical experience, and international networks while helping strengthen governance and public service delivery in low- and middle-income countries.