About the Fellowship
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship provides mid-level professionals from developing countries with advanced training on ocean affairs and the law of the sea, including marine science to support effective management frameworks. This fully funded fellowship equips professionals with in-depth knowledge of international legal frameworks, key ocean governance issues, and best practices.
Fellowship Objectives
Through this fellowship, participants will:
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Gain advanced understanding of ocean affairs and the law of the sea
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Learn about international legal frameworks, policy issues, and UN ocean governance work
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Conduct individual research under academic supervision and develop a 100-page written thesis on a selected topic
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Develop professional skills in research, policy formulation, and implementation
Upon completion, fellows are expected to return to their home countries to contribute to formulating comprehensive ocean policies and implementing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and related instruments, including designing and evaluating improvement projects.
Fellowship Structure and Curriculum
The 9-month fellowship consists of two phases:
Phase One: Research and Training
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Duration: 3 months (March/April to June)
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Location: Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), United Nations Headquarters, New York
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Activities include structured training, assignments, and preparation for academic research.
Phase Two: Advanced Academic Research and Study
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Duration: 6 months (July to December)
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Location: One of the prestigious participating host institutions
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Fellows will conduct advanced academic research under the guidance of experts in their chosen field.
Fellowship Deliverables
Fellows are required to complete:
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A 100-page written thesis on their research topic
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A presentation of their research findings
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An ocean governance matrix outlining key insights and applications
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Additional assignments during the training curriculum in Phase One
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
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Be aged 25 to 45 years
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Hold at least a first university degree and demonstrate capacity for independent advanced academic research
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Be a mid-level professional from a government ministry, agency, or NGO in a developing State dealing directly with ocean affairs, marine science, or policy implementation
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Have a professional position that allows direct contribution to national ocean affairs policies or programmes
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Submit a Nomination and Recommendation Form completed by a government official attesting to their role and confirming how the fellowship will enhance national capacity
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Have a proposed research topic directly contributing to national ocean affairs and law of the sea policy formulation or implementation
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Be free of all non-fellowship obligations during the entire period, unless otherwise authorized by the Division
The programme is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities.
Fellowship Conditions and Funding
This is a fully funded fellowship covering:
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Return travel costs to host institutions
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Monthly stipend payments
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Visa and medical insurance arrangements
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Accommodation support during both phases
For detailed fellowship conditions, visit the Fellowship Conditions page.
Application Process
Applications are accepted only during open calls. Interested candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and submit:
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A completed application form
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A proposed research and study programme
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A Nomination and Recommendation Form from their employer
Visit the Host Institutions page for the list of participating universities and research centres.
Testimonials
“UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship not only gave me the opportunity to understand how UN General Assembly, high-level meetings, and negotiations are conducted but also allowed me to meet and interact with other fellows and ocean experts from around the globe.”
— UNNF Fellow, The Gambia
Important Links and Documents
Why Apply
This fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity to:
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Gain expert knowledge in ocean affairs, marine science, and international law
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Enhance your country’s capacity in implementing UNCLOS and related instruments
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Join a global network of ocean governance professionals and experts
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Advance your career in international ocean policy and environmental management
For full details and to apply, visit the UN Nippon Fellowship Application Portal before the closing date once the 2026 call for applications is announced.