The Center for Inclusive Policy (CIP) has announced that applications are now open for its next cohort of fellows under the CIP Fellowship Program, a fully online initiative designed to support emerging researchers with disabilities in low- and middle-income countries. The 12-month fellowship aims to strengthen disability-inclusive research by enabling participants to design and implement research projects grounded in their own local contexts. Applications will remain open until 31 July 2026 at midnight EDT. According to CIP, the programme is intended for early-career researchers who demonstrate a strong commitment to disability rights and inclusion, and who are seeking opportunities to develop practical research skills while contributing to policy-relevant knowledge in their home countries. Supporting Emerging Disability Researchers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries The CIP Fellowship Program focuses on building research capacity among persons with disabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to academic and professional research opportunities is often limited. The fellowship is open to applicants aged 18 and above, with no upper age limit. CIP emphasized that selection is based primarily on eligibility, commitment to disability inclusion, and potential for research development rather than years of professional experience. The programme seeks to empower participants to generate evidence that reflects local realities, challenges, and policy priorities related to disability inclusion and rights. Fully Funded CIP Online Fellowship Structure The CIP Fellowship is a fully online programme lasting 12 months, combining structured training, mentorship, and independent research development. Selected fellows will receive a range of financial and academic support, including: A monthly stipend of US$1,000 for the duration of the fellowship Up to US$2,000 for fieldwork expenses or participation in training and conferences Coverage of reasonable accommodation costs to ensure full participation Access to a structured online training curriculum led by experienced researchers One-on-one mentorship to support research design and implementation Entry into a global alumni network of disability inclusion researchers and practitioners CIP stated that these resources are intended to remove financial and accessibility barriers that often prevent persons with disabilities from participating in research programmes and academic development opportunities. Research Focus Areas Fellows will have the opportunity to develop independent research projects aligned with disability inclusion and policy development priorities. Key thematic areas include: Disability data collection and analysis Social protection systems and accessibility Care and support systems for persons with disabilities Inclusive budgeting and public finance policies Community-based support systems Independent living and autonomy These research areas are designed to contribute to evidence-based policymaking and strengthen understanding of how social, economic, and institutional systems can better support persons with disabilities. CIP emphasized that fellows are encouraged to design projects based on their own national or community contexts, ensuring that research outcomes are locally relevant and grounded in lived experience. Promoting Disability Inclusion in Research and Policy The CIP Fellowship reflects a broader global effort to strengthen disability inclusion in research, governance, and development policy. Disability advocates and researchers have long highlighted the need for more inclusive data systems, better-informed social protection policies, and increased participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes. By supporting researchers with disabilities directly, the programme seeks to address structural barriers that often limit participation in academic and policy research spaces. CIP noted that increasing representation in research is essential for improving the quality and relevance of disability-related policy interventions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where data gaps remain significant. Mentorship, Training, and Global Networking In addition to financial support, fellows will benefit from structured academic training delivered online by leading researchers in the field of disability policy and inclusive development. Each participant will be assigned a mentor who will provide guidance throughout the research process, including project design, methodology development, data analysis, and dissemination of findings. The programme also offers access to a global alumni network, allowing fellows to connect with other researchers, policymakers, and advocates working in disability inclusion and social policy. CIP stated that this network is intended to foster long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange beyond the duration of the fellowship. Eligibility and Application Requirements Applicants must be at least 18 years old and identify as persons with disabilities living in low- and middle-income countries. The programme is targeted at early-career researchers who are beginning to develop their academic or policy research pathways. While there is no upper age limit, applicants are expected to demonstrate strong motivation and commitment to disability rights and inclusion. CIP encourages applications from individuals with diverse academic and professional backgrounds, provided they have an interest in research and policy development in disability-related fields. Applications must be submitted by 31 July 2026. Strengthening Inclusive Research Ecosystems Experts in disability inclusion and development policy note that programmes like the CIP Fellowship play a critical role in strengthening inclusive research ecosystems globally. By providing financial support, mentorship, and training, the initiative helps ensure that researchers with disabilities are not excluded from contributing to policy-relevant knowledge production. The fellowship is also expected to contribute to improved understanding of disability issues across sectors such as social protection, governance, health systems, and community development. CIP’s programme represents a growing recognition that inclusive research practices are essential for achieving equitable and effective development outcomes. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the full programme details and submit their applications before the deadline. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW JOIN THIS WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW