The Software Sustainability Institute (SSI) has officially opened applications for its 2027 Fellowship Programme, providing researchers, research software engineers, developers, data specialists and community leaders with an opportunity to advance research software practices, strengthen professional networks and drive positive change within their fields. Recognised internationally for promoting excellence in research software and digital research practices, the SSI Fellowship Programme supports individuals who are passionate about improving the way software is developed, maintained and used within research environments. The programme offers a platform for Fellows to develop leadership skills, build collaborations and contribute to the future of research software sustainability. About the Software Sustainability Institute The Software Sustainability Institute is a leading organisation dedicated to improving software practices within research and academia. It works with researchers, developers, institutions and policymakers to ensure that research software remains sustainable, accessible and impactful. Through its Fellowship Programme, the Institute supports a diverse network of professionals who advocate for better software practices, open research, reproducibility, community building and digital innovation across disciplines. The Fellowship Programme has helped establish a global community of experts and champions who promote excellence in research software and contribute to advancing research culture worldwide. Fellowship Programme Objectives The SSI Fellowship Programme seeks to identify and support individuals who are already making a difference in their communities and who have the potential to create wider impact through leadership and advocacy. Successful Fellows become part of a vibrant network of professionals committed to improving research software practices and supporting innovation across academia, industry and the wider research ecosystem. The programme aims to: Build leadership capacity within research software communities. Promote sustainable software development practices. Support open and reproducible research. Strengthen collaboration across disciplines and institutions. Encourage innovation in digital research methods and infrastructure. Develop communities of practice around research software and digital skills. Who Should Apply? The Fellowship Programme is intended for individuals who are passionate about improving research through software, data and digital technologies. Potential applicants may include: Researchers using software as a key component of their work. Research Software Engineers (RSEs). Software developers supporting research activities. Data scientists and data specialists. Digital scholarship practitioners. Open science advocates. Community builders and research leaders. Professionals promoting better software and computational research practices. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to creating positive change within their communities and advancing sustainable research software practices. Application Timeline The Software Sustainability Institute has announced the following key dates for the 2027 Fellowship Programme: Applications Open: 10 August 2026 Launch Webinar: 20 August 2026 Applications Close: 5 October 2026 Shortlist Confirmation: 3 November 2026 Online Selection Day: 12 November 2026 Public Announcement of Fellows: 9 December 2026 Fellowship Period: 1 January 2027 to 31 March 2028 Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their materials well in advance of the closing date. Application Process The application process consists of two main components: Application Form Applicants must complete the official Fellowship application form, providing information about their experience, achievements, community involvement and proposed Fellowship activities. Screencast Video In addition to the written application, candidates are required to submit a screencast video. This allows applicants to present their ideas, motivations and vision for how they would contribute to the Fellowship community. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in an Online Selection Day, where they will engage further with the selection panel and demonstrate their suitability for the programme. Application Support One of the unique aspects of the SSI Fellowship Programme is the support available to prospective applicants. Existing Fellows are available to provide guidance, answer questions and share insights about the application process. Applicants may request support through the Fellowship management team and connect with experienced Fellows who can offer practical advice on preparing a strong application. This mentorship opportunity helps applicants better understand the programme and improve the quality of their submissions. Selection Criteria The Institute provides detailed guidance documents covering: Eligibility requirements. Shortlisting criteria. Online Selection Day assessment criteria. Fellowship terms and conditions. Code of Conduct requirements. Applicants are encouraged to review these documents carefully before submitting their applications. Understanding the assessment framework can help candidates present stronger applications that clearly demonstrate their potential impact and alignment with the programme’s objectives. Benefits of Becoming an SSI Fellow Becoming an SSI Fellow offers numerous professional and personal development opportunities. Benefits include: Membership in an internationally recognised Fellowship network. Opportunities to influence research software practices. Enhanced visibility within research and technology communities. Access to collaboration and networking opportunities. Leadership development and community-building experience. Opportunities to promote open science and sustainable research practices. Support for activities that contribute to positive change within the research ecosystem. The Fellowship can also strengthen an individual’s professional profile and create opportunities for future collaborations, projects and leadership roles. Why This Opportunity Matters As research increasingly depends on software, data and computational methods, there is growing recognition of the need for sustainable software practices and strong digital research leadership. The SSI Fellowship Programme provides a platform for professionals who want to address these challenges and contribute to shaping the future of research software. By bringing together talented individuals from diverse disciplines and backgrounds, the programme helps create a stronger, more collaborative and more sustainable research environment. Application Deadline Applications for the Software Sustainability Institute Fellowship Programme 2027 close on 5 October 2026. Individuals interested in advancing research software sustainability, supporting open research practices and building stronger research communities are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.