Applications are currently being accepted for the International Science Council (ISC) Civic Science Fellow 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About ISC - Civic Science Fellow
The International Science Council (ISC) is seeking applications from outstanding early- to mid-career researchers to serve as a Civic Science Fellow with a focus on science communication. Hosted virtually by the ISC, the 18-month Fellowship provides an opportunity to explore how multilateral organizations can communicate evidence more effectively in international policy processes and strengthen the role of science in multilateral decision-making.
Scientific evidence plays an increasingly important role in addressing global challenges, yet it is often difficult to communicate effectively in multilateral settings, where political, institutional and cultural considerations shape how evidence is received, understood and used.
This Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to work in one of the world’s most globally representative science organizations and to contribute to applied research and stakeholder engagement at the science–policy interface. The Fellow will engage directly with scientists, communication professionals, policy practitioners and international organization staff to identify effective approaches for communicating scientific evidence for policy uptake and translate these into practical tools and guidance.
The Fellowship will be hosted virtually by the International Science Council, subject to an arrangement agreed with the ISC. Regular virtual collaboration with the ISC Secretariat, Members and partners will be expected. The Fellowship will also include international travel to meetings, workshops and events.
Benefits of ISC - Civic Science Fellow
The Fellow will have the opportunity to:
- Conduct applied research with direct relevance to international science policy.
- Work with the ISC’s global network of scientific organizations and partners.
- Engage with leading experts in science communication, science advice and multilateral governance.
- Become part of a global network of science communicators, experts, journalists to foster learning and professional development opportunities.
- Build experience at the intersection of research, policy and practice.
- Contribute to guidance and resources that support scientific organizations worldwide.
ISC - Civic Science Fellow Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD (or expect to have completed one before the Fellowship start date) in a relevant discipline.
- Be able to undertake the Fellowship on a full-time basis for its full 18-month duration from September 2026 with a letter of support expected from the organization where the Fellow may be currently employed. It will be the responsibility of the Fellow to ensure that she/he can commit for the full duration of the fellowship and to make the necessary arrangements with his/her employer as necessary.
- Sign a tripartite collaboration agreement with the Rita Allen Foundation and the ISC. The ISC will also enter into a contractual arrangement directly with the Fellow and the stipend will normally be paid to the Fellow directly.
- Hold a valid passport and be able to undertake international travel as required by the Fellowship.
- Be eligible to obtain visas for international travel where necessary. The Fellowship will involve occasional travel to international meetings and events, including in countries such as the United States.
- Be available weekly on Tuesdays for 18 months from noon to 2:00 pm ET to participate in Learning Labs with the other Civic Science Fellows of the cohort, convened by the Rita Allen Foundation.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong track record of high-quality research and publications relevant to the Fellowship.
- Demonstrated expertise in science communication, particularly in relation to public policy, international governance or the science–policy interface.
- Experience working with, or advising, governments, international organizations, scientific organizations or other policy actors
- A proven ability to translate research into practical guidance, tools or recommendations for policy and practice.
- Excellent written and spoken English, with excellent communication and facilitation skills.
- The ability to work independently while engaging effectively with a wide range of international stakeholders.
- Experience leading interdisciplinary or international research collaborations, designing capacity-building activities, or working in multilateral contexts would be highly desirable.
Relevant scientific fields include:
- Behavioural science
- Cognitive science
- Psychology
- Science communication
- Political science
- Public policy
- Risk analysis and interpretation
- Decision science
- Intersections of individual and collective action
Application Date and Process
- Click on the link to the application website to apply.
Application Deadline
16 August, 2026
Opportunity Application
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ISC - Civic Science Fellow
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