Program Overview
The Governance and Politics Research Fellowship (GPRF) program at BIGD invites applications from aspiring young researchers interested in Governance and Politics. This specialized fellowship aims to develop the next generation of social science researchers through structured academic training, applied research exposure, and intensive field engagement.
The most recent iteration of BIGD’s flagship Young Researchers’ Fellow (YRF) program, GPRF is designed to build strong conceptual foundations in governance, political science, and public policy, while equipping fellows with practical research skills required for high-quality qualitative research.
Duration
Four (4) months (full-time, field-intensive)
Program Components
The fellowship consists of three core components:
1. Conceptual and Theoretical Foundation Building
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- Governance, political science, and public policy;
- Application of theory to real-world governance and political contexts.
2. Applied Research Methods Training
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- Qualitative research methodologies;
- Fieldwork techniques;
- Data collection and management;
- Research ethics and academic integrity.
3. Hands-on Research and Mentorship
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- Active involvement in ongoing projects of the Governance and Politics cluster;
- Proposal development, instrument design, and field engagement;
- Report writing and analytical documentation;
- Close mentoring by senior researchers.
The program is dynamic, immersive, and field-oriented. Fellows will actively participate in ongoing research projects and attend structured lectures and training sessions.
Key Learning Opportunities
Successful applicants will be chosen as a Trainee Research Associate (TRA) and are expected to complete the four-month training program. TRAs will have the opportunity to:
- Develop a strong understanding of governance and political theory, and apply these to research design;
- Gain hands-on experience in proposal writing, instrument development, report preparation, and analytical writing;
- Strengthen qualitative research management and field coordination skills;
- Engage directly with real-life research contexts and governance issues;
- Build a strong foundation for a professional career in qualitative governance research.
At the end of the training program, TRAs may potentially be considered for full-time positions (for example, Research Associate) in the Governance and Politics Cluster, based on performance and institutional needs.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Bangladeshi nationals only;
- Minimum bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Sociology, Anthropology, International Relations, Development Studies, or any other discipline from a reputed national or international university;
- Minimum CGPA of 3.00 (on a scale of 4.00) or equivalent to at least one degree
- Age not exceeding 30 years;
- Demonstrated interest in qualitative research methodologies;
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills;
- Good verbal and written communication skills in English and/or Bangla;
- Active interest in national and global politics, economics, and current affairs;
- Commitment to academic integrity and research ethics;
- Willingness to comply with BIGD’s Code of Conduct.
Honorarium
All selected participants will receive a monthly honorarium.
Application Submission
Interested candidates are requested to submit their applications through the prescribed application link below by 31 March 2026.
A complete application must include:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV);
- A brief statement of interest explaining motivation and relevant research interests.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the selection process. BIGD reserves the right to accept or reject any application without assigning any reason.
