The Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana has officially opened applications for its prestigious Pre-Doctoral Fellowship 2026–2027, offering an outstanding opportunity for aspiring researchers who are preparing for doctoral studies. The one-year fellowship is designed to provide talented early-career researchers with extensive hands-on experience in applied development research while working alongside internationally recognized experts in agriculture, natural resources, food systems, and impact evaluation.
Hosted by ISSER under the Standing Panel on Impact Assessment (SPIA) of CGIAR, this fellowship provides participants with the opportunity to contribute to globally significant research projects while developing practical research skills, publishing technical papers, and collaborating with international researchers.
For graduates interested in pursuing a PhD and building a strong research portfolio, this fellowship represents an excellent stepping stone toward an academic or policy-oriented research career.
About the ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship
The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship is a one-year research programme that aims to strengthen the research capacity of promising scholars before they begin doctoral studies.
The selected Fellow will work under the mentorship of Professor Robert Darko Osei, a member of the Standing Panel on Impact Assessment (SPIA) at the University of Ghana.
Throughout the fellowship period, participants will contribute to research projects focusing on:
- Agriculture
- Agricultural development
- Food systems
- Natural resources
- Development economics
- Impact evaluation
- Evidence-based policymaking
The programme emphasizes practical research experience through involvement in every stage of the research process—from research planning and design to data collection, statistical analysis, reporting, publication, and dissemination.
Fellowship Details
- Host Institution: Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana
- Research Partner: Standing Panel on Impact Assessment (SPIA), CGIAR
- Duty Station: ISSER, University of Ghana
- Fellowship Duration: 1 September 2026 – 31 August 2027
- Programme Length: One year
About ISSER
The Institute of Statistical, Social, and Economic Research (ISSER) is one of Africa’s leading research institutions dedicated to advancing knowledge in economics, development studies, public policy, governance, agriculture, and social sciences.
Operating under the University of Ghana, ISSER conducts policy-relevant research that contributes to national, regional, and global development. The institute collaborates with governments, international organizations, universities, and development partners to generate evidence that informs policy decisions.
Researchers at ISSER frequently engage in multidisciplinary projects addressing Africa’s most pressing development challenges.
About SPIA (Standing Panel on Impact Assessment)
The fellowship is supported through the Standing Panel on Impact Assessment (SPIA) of CGIAR.
SPIA plays a critical role in evaluating the effectiveness and impact of agricultural research investments across the world. Through rigorous evidence generation and impact assessment methodologies, SPIA helps improve agricultural innovations, food security interventions, and sustainable development initiatives.
Fellows joining this programme will have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers working on globally relevant agricultural and development challenges.
Objectives of the Fellowship
The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship seeks to:
- Prepare talented researchers for doctoral studies.
- Build advanced research and analytical skills.
- Strengthen expertise in development research.
- Promote evidence-based policy research.
- Enhance capacity in impact evaluation.
- Provide exposure to international research collaborations.
- Encourage publication of high-quality academic research.
- Develop future leaders in agricultural and development economics.
Fellowship Responsibilities
Successful applicants will become active members of the SPIA research team and will contribute to multiple research activities throughout the fellowship period.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Supporting Scientific Research
The Fellow will assist with:
- Planning research activities
- Implementing research projects
- Monitoring research progress
- Reporting on activities under the SPIA workplan
2. Research Design and Data Management
Participants will support:
- Research design
- Survey preparation
- Data collection
- Data management
- Data cleaning
- Quantitative data analysis
This provides valuable practical experience in the complete research cycle.
3. International Collaboration
The Fellow will collaborate with:
- SPIA’s global research team
- International researchers
- Other SPIA Panel Members
Such collaborations provide exposure to international research standards and multidisciplinary teamwork.
4. Participation in Research Seminars
Throughout the fellowship, participants will:
- Attend SPIA monthly research seminars
- Participate in collaborative research meetings
- Engage in academic discussions
- Learn from internationally recognized researchers
5. Research Communication
The Fellow will contribute to producing:
- Technical reports
- Research presentations
- Policy briefs
- Academic outputs
- Other scientific communication materials
6. Academic Publications
An important component of the fellowship is scholarly publishing.
The selected Fellow is expected to:
- Contribute to research publications.
- Produce at least two technical papers during the fellowship period.
This publication experience significantly strengthens future PhD applications and academic careers.
7. Administrative Support
Additional responsibilities include:
- Providing project support
- Assisting with administrative tasks
- Performing other duties assigned by the SPIA Member
Benefits of the Fellowship
The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship offers numerous professional and academic advantages.
Participants will benefit from:
- One year of intensive research experience.
- Mentorship from experienced researchers.
- Collaboration with international experts.
- Participation in global research initiatives.
- Exposure to advanced quantitative research methods.
- Experience in impact evaluation.
- Opportunities to publish technical papers.
- Participation in monthly research seminars.
- Development of professional research skills.
- Strengthened preparation for doctoral studies.
- Networking opportunities with international researchers.
- Competitive fellowship remuneration based on qualifications and experience.
Fellowship Remuneration
ISSER will offer the selected Fellow a competitive fellowship package, with remuneration determined according to the Fellow’s qualifications and experience.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications
Applicants should possess:
- A Master’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related discipline.
Technical Skills
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong quantitative skills.
- Excellent analytical abilities.
- Experience in research methodologies.
- Experience in data collection.
Research Interests
Applicants should have a genuine interest in:
- Agriculture
- Natural resources
- Food systems
- Development research in developing countries
Professional Competencies
Successful applicants should possess:
- Good communication skills.
- Strong teamwork abilities.
- Research writing skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
Additional Advantage
Knowledge or experience in impact evaluation will be considered an added advantage during the selection process.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- A cover letter explaining their motivation and suitability for the fellowship.
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of academic certificates.
- Contact information for two academic referees.
Applicants should ensure that all documents are complete and professionally prepared before submission.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications electronically.
Applications should be emailed to:
Use the following email subject line:
Application – Pre-Doctoral Fellowship at ISSER
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Application Deadline
Deadline: Monday, 3 August 2026
Late applications may not be considered. Interested candidates are therefore advised to prepare and submit all required documents before the deadline.
Why You Should Apply
The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship is more than just a research placement—it is a career development programme designed to prepare future scholars for success in doctoral education and beyond.
Participants will gain invaluable experience in applied development research, receive mentorship from leading academics, contribute to internationally significant research projects, and build a strong publication record. The fellowship also offers opportunities to develop advanced analytical skills, engage with global research networks, and strengthen future applications for PhD programmes and research positions.
For graduates who aspire to become researchers, economists, policy analysts, or development professionals, this fellowship provides an exceptional foundation for long-term academic and professional success.
Visit HERE for information about the ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship 2026–2027 at the University of Ghana.
Conclusion
The ISSER Pre-Doctoral Fellowship 2026–2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers to develop practical research expertise while working with one of Africa’s leading research institutions. Through mentorship, international collaboration, publication opportunities, and hands-on experience in development research, Fellows will be well-positioned for future doctoral studies and careers in academia, policy, and international development.
If you have a strong background in economics or a related discipline and are passionate about agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and impact evaluation, this fellowship could be the ideal next step in your academic journey. Be sure to prepare your application carefully and submit all required documents before Monday, 3 August 2026.
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