Accepting applications Fully Funded

Just Tech Fellowship 2027 (Up to $60,000 Funding for Global Researchers)

Last updated May 1, 2026

Deadline

2026-06-28

Level

fellowship

Organization

Social Science Research Council (SSRC)

Field

Technology and Society, Artificial Intelligence and ethics, Digital inequality, Social justice and technology, Public-interest technology

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The Just Tech Fellowship, an initiative of the Social Science Research Council (SSRC), supports researchers, artists, and practitioners working at the intersection of technology and society. It aims to advance rigorous, original, and community-grounded work that addresses critical questions about how technology shapes society and public life, and contributes to more informed and accountable technological futures. The fellowship provides resources and flexibility for fellows to pursue ambitious projects.

Coverage

The fellowship offers a one-year unrestricted award of up to $60,000 to support research, creative practice, or community-engaged work. The fellowship period runs from January 2027 through December 2027. In addition to the primary award, fellows may apply for seed funding of up to $5,000 for collaborative projects. Benefits also include monthly virtual gatherings, individualized mentoring, participation in one in-person research workshop, and access to a network of peers, external partners, and the broader Just Tech network.

Eligibility

This fellowship is open to international researchers, academics, technologists, developers, journalists, policy experts, artists, creative practitioners, community organizers, social scientists, and humanists. Applicants must demonstrate a strong track record of meaningful work at the intersection of technology and society. Full-time students are not eligible. The program welcomes applicants from a wide range of fields, methods, and career paths.

Requirements

Applicants are expected to dedicate sustained time over the fellowship year to advancing a proposed project that addresses real-world technology challenges, focuses on social impact, and produces public-facing outcomes. Successful projects often involve areas like Artificial Intelligence and ethics, digital inequality, social justice and technology, or public-interest technology. Fellows must participate in monthly virtual gatherings and attend one in-person research workshop.

How to apply

To apply, follow the online application process. You will need to clearly explain the problem your project addresses, your proposed solution, and the expected impact of your work. The application is evaluated based on the project's relevance, feasibility, and potential for impact, as well as the applicant's demonstrated expertise and track record.

Notes

The funding is flexible and can be used to support research, creative work, or community projects. The program fosters sustained intellectual and professional connections within the Just Tech network, with ongoing access beyond the award year.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Social Science Research Council (SSRC)

Original source: BrightScholarship

Official application page: https://www.ssrc.org/programs/just-tech/just-tech-fellowship/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.