The Brookings Institution has opened applications for the 2027 Echidna Global Scholars Program, a six-month fellowship for experienced professionals seeking to improve education opportunities and outcomes for girls and young women across the Global South.
The programme, hosted by Brookings’ Center for Universal Education (CUE), will support selected scholars in conducting research, strengthening their leadership skills and developing evidence-based policies to advance gender equality in education.
Interested applicants must submit their applications by December 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
The fellowship will include a research design retreat, virtual training, in-country research activities and a residency in Washington, D.C., where scholars will work with Brookings experts to develop policy recommendations based on their findings.
The programme will also connect successful applicants with a network of education researchers, policymakers and development professionals working to improve learning opportunities and life outcomes for girls, young women and gender-nonconforming people.
What the Fellowship Offers
The 2027 Echidna Global Scholars Program will provide participants with opportunities to:
- Conduct individual research into gender equality and education in their home countries.
- Strengthen their leadership, research and evidence-based policymaking skills.
- Develop policy briefs and commentaries for publication and wider dissemination.
- Build professional relationships with researchers, policymakers and education leaders.
- Develop strategies to translate research findings into practical changes in their home countries.
- Join the Echidna Alumni Network after completing the fellowship.
The fellowship announcement lists a $26,500 stipend and fully funded support. Applicants should consult the official programme webpage for details of the financial package and residency arrangements.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for the 2027 Echidna Global Scholars Program:
- Academic qualifications: Hold a master’s degree or higher in education, development, public policy, economics, or a related social science or humanities discipline.
- Professional experience: Have at least 10 years of professional experience in research, academia, non-governmental organisations, community organisations, civil society or government.
- Connection to the Global South: Demonstrate substantial experience and ties to a country in the Global South, alongside a clear intention to return there.
- Knowledge of education and gender: Show a strong understanding of education development challenges and gender-related issues.
- Leadership and collaboration: Demonstrate the ability to work with others, receive and provide feedback, and adapt quickly while learning.
- English proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English.
Candidates should also propose an original research project that could improve learning opportunities and life outcomes for girls, young women and gender-nonconforming people in their countries.
Fellowship Structure and Timeline
The programme will run through four main phases.
1. Kickoff and research design retreat — April 2027
Scholars will participate in a one-week, in-person retreat with the Center for Universal Education’s Gender Equality in and through Education team. They will refine their research proposals, identify policy problems and develop research and data-collection plans.
2. Pre-residency — June to July 2027
Participants will begin collecting and analysing data in their home countries. The phase will include virtual workshops, group meetings and individual advisory sessions. Scholars should expect to commit approximately 15–20 hours per week during this period.
3. Residency in Washington, D.C. — August to December 2027
Scholars will work closely with Brookings experts to analyse their research findings, develop policy briefs and prepare commentaries for publication. They will also participate in leadership development activities, expand their professional networks and engage with policymakers and other stakeholders.
4. Post-residency — 2028 to 2029
Following the residency, scholars will receive continued support as they work to apply their research findings in their home countries. Activities will include strategic advice, leadership development and opportunities to participate in the Gender Equality in and through Education Research and Policy Symposium.
How to Apply for the Echidna Global Scholars Program
Interested candidates must submit their applications through Brookings’ official iCIMS application system.
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
1. CV or résumé
The document should outline the applicant’s educational qualifications, professional experience, publications, fellowships, honours, awards, funded research and foundation support received.
2. Completed application form and research proposal
Applicants must complete the Echidna Global Scholars Program application, which includes a written questionnaire and a research proposal.
Applicants should upload the completed application document in the designated “Writing sample” section and follow the prescribed file-naming format: Last Name_First Name_document name. For example, Doe_Jane_CV.
Letters of recommendation, separate writing samples and academic transcripts are not required at the initial application stage. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Those selected may be asked to submit additional documents and references.
Incomplete applications and submissions received after the deadline will not be considered.
Important Application Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | December 1, 2026 |
| Phone-screen interviews | December 7–18, 2026 |
| Programme and final-panel assessments | January–February 2027 |
| Selection and invitations | February 16, 2027 |
| Acceptance deadline | February 23, 2027 |
| Research design retreat | April 2027 |
| Pre-residency begins | June 15, 2027 |
| Washington, D.C. residency | August–December 2027 |
Applicants should prepare their materials early and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
Where to Apply
Visit the official Brookings Echidna Global Scholars Program webpage to review the programme details and access the application process.
TIPZ tip: Start preparing your CV and research proposal early. Focus your proposal on a clear education challenge affecting girls or young women in your country, explain how you intend to investigate it, and demonstrate how your findings could inform policies or practical interventions.
