Scholarship Overview
Overview
The UNU-WIDER Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme provides registered doctoral students with an opportunity to conduct dissertation research at the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research in Helsinki, Finland. Fellows spend three consecutive months working alongside UNU-WIDER researchers on topics related to developing economies.
This fellowship is particularly valuable for African researchers, including those from Zimbabwe and the SADC region, who are studying economic development. UNU-WIDER explicitly encourages applications from developing country researchers, early-career scholars, and women.
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What the Fellowship Covers
UNU-WIDER provides comprehensive financial support:
- Monthly stipend: EUR 2,100 for living expenses in Helsinki
- Travel grant: Covers round-trip travel from your PhD institution or country of residence
- Medical insurance: Coverage for sickness and accident during your stay
Important limitations: The programme does not cover expenses for dependents. Fellows are responsible for their own accommodation arrangements in Helsinki.
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this fellowship, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be currently enrolled in a PhD programme at a recognised university
- Demonstrate ability to conduct research on developing economies
- Be fluent in oral and written English
- Possess strong quantitative and/or qualitative analytical skills
While UNU-WIDER is an economics-focused institute, candidates from other social sciences may apply. However, your research proposal should align with development economics themes. The programme specifically targets researchers at later stages of their PhD.
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UNU-WIDER particularly welcomes applications from:
- Early-career researchers
- Female researchers
- Developing country researchers (including Zimbabwe and SADC nationals)
Fellowship Dates and Structure
The Visiting PhD Fellowship follows a fixed schedule:
- September application round: Fellowship period is March–June of the following year
- March application round: Fellowship period is September–November of the same year
During your three-month stay, you will:
- Prepare one or more research papers
- Present a seminar on your research findings
- Collaborate with UNU-WIDER researchers
- Potentially publish in the WIDER Working Paper Series
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Wait for the application window: The online form becomes available on 1 September 2026 at 00:00 UTC+3
- Complete the online application form: Available only through UNU-WIDER’s official portal
- Upload your curriculum vitae: Required as part of the online application
- Request supervisor reference: Ask your PhD supervisor to email a reference letter to phdreference@wider.unu.edu. This letter also certifies your PhD enrolment
- Submit before deadline: 30 September 2026, 23:59 UTC+3
Critical notes:
- Applications are accepted only twice yearly (March and September rounds)
- The application link activates only one month before each deadline
- UNU-WIDER does not accept applications by email or post
- Selected applicants are notified approximately one month after the deadline
- Successful candidates must confirm acceptance within two weeks of notification
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum vitae (uploaded to the application portal)
- Reference letter from PhD supervisor (emailed directly by supervisor to phdreference@wider.unu.edu)
Ensure your supervisor submits the reference promptly. Applications without a valid reference will be incomplete.
Selection Process and Competitiveness
The Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme is highly competitive. In recent years, approximately one percent of all applications have been successful.
Selection favours applicants whose research topics align with UNU-WIDER’s current work programme. Review the institute’s research priorities before applying to strengthen your proposal.
Contact and Support
For questions or technical issues:
- First consult the frequently asked questions page
- If problems persist, email: phdfellow@wider.unu.edu
- Allow up to five working days for responses
Practical Considerations for African Applicants
If you are applying from Zimbabwe or the SADC region:
- Plan for Helsinki living costs: While EUR 2,100 monthly is substantial, Helsinki is expensive. Budget carefully for accommodation, which is not provided
- Apply early for your passport and any required Schengen visas once selected
- Consider the March–June period for better weather, though Helsinki is pleasant in autumn (September–November) as well
- Network with previous fellows from Africa through UNU-WIDER’s published experiences
The fellowship was previously known as the PhD Internship Programme. Previous fellows’ experiences are documented on the UNU-WIDER website for reference.