The DTH-Lab Research Fellowship Programme 2026 is set to open applications from 30 March to 12 April 2026, offering an important opportunity for students and early-career professionals from low- and middle-income countries to contribute to cutting-edge research on digital health policy and governance.
The fellowship programme aims to support emerging leaders interested in exploring how digital technologies are transforming health systems worldwide.
Through hands-on research and policy analysis, selected fellows will work alongside experts to address some of the most pressing questions at the intersection of technology, health, and governance.
About the DTH-Lab Research Fellowship Programme
The DTH-Lab Research Fellowship Programme is designed to strengthen the capacity of future health leaders by providing practical research experience in digital health transformation. Fellows will collaborate on specific research or analytical projects that contribute to global discussions around digital health policy.
A key objective of the programme is to empower young researchers and professionals to shape policies that influence how digital technologies are used in healthcare systems, particularly in regions facing resource and infrastructure challenges.
Participants gain valuable experience in:
- Digital health research and policy analysis
- Global health governance
- Emerging technologies shaping healthcare
- Evidence-based policy development
By supporting scholars from low- and middle-income countries, the programme also promotes diversity and inclusion in global health leadership.
Research Topics for the 2026 Fellowship Cohort
For the 2026 fellowship cycle, eight fellows will be selected to conduct research in key areas related to digital health transformation. The selected topics reflect some of the most urgent policy questions facing global health systems today.
1. National Policies for Young People’s Digital Well-Being
This research area focuses on how governments can design policies that protect and promote the digital well-being of young people. As digital technologies increasingly influence education, social interaction, and healthcare, policymakers must address issues such as digital safety, mental health, and responsible technology use.
2. Digital Determinants of Health in Africa
Fellows working in this area will examine how digital technologies shape health outcomes across the African continent. The research will explore continental priorities, governance challenges, and policy responses needed to address digital inequalities that affect health.
3. Digital Citizenship for Health
This topic explores the concept of digital citizenship within the healthcare ecosystem. Researchers will investigate the foundational elements that enable individuals and communities to responsibly access, understand, and engage with digital health tools and information.
4. Artificial Intelligence and the Health Workforce
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the healthcare landscape. This research area examines how AI technologies are reshaping the roles, responsibilities, and skills required within the health workforce.
5. Emerging Roles in an AI-Enabled Health Workforce
As AI tools become more integrated into healthcare systems, new professional roles are emerging. Fellows will analyze how health systems can adapt to these changes by preparing workers for AI-enabled environments and identifying the skills needed for future healthcare professions.
Research Fellows Dissemination Series
Prospective applicants and interested participants can also learn more about the fellowship programme through the upcoming Research Fellows Dissemination Series. This two-part online event will showcase findings from the current cohort of fellows and provide insights into ongoing research at DTH-Lab.
Session 1: Designing Healthy Digital Futures for Young People
- Date: 24 March 2026
- Time: 12:00 – 13:15 CET
- Focus: Exploring strategies for creating healthier digital environments that support youth well-being.
Session 2: Governing Digital Health Systems
- Date: 31 March 2026
- Time: 12:00 – 13:00 CET
- Focus: Addressing governance challenges in digital health systems to promote equity, solidarity, and youth well-being.
These sessions offer valuable opportunities to understand the type of research conducted within the fellowship programme and to engage with the current fellows’ work.
Key details
The duration of this Fellowship Programme will be six months from 1 May to 31 October 2026.
Fellowship opportunities are available for students or early career researchers aged 30 or under and based in a low or middle-income country.
Application Dealine: 12 April 2026
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested and Qualified candidates should use link below to Apply.
Interviews will be held during the week beginning 20th April. Applications will only be considered if they include the following material:
- Curriculum Vitae / Resume including date of birth and nationality
- Details of two referees.
Learn More Information visit official website HERE
DTH-Lab welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Due to the expected volume of submissions, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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