Deadline: 14 September 2025
Are you a mid-career professional or government official from a developing country working on marine science, ocean affairs, or maritime law? The UN‑Nippon Foundation Fellowship on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea – 2026 is a fully funded opportunity designed to deepen your expertise and expand your influence in global ocean governance.
This prestigious fellowship, offered by the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) of the United Nations, provides a structured 9-month training and research experience, empowering fellows to contribute to sustainable ocean policy development in their home countries.
Fellowship Overview
The UN‑Nippon Foundation Fellowship on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea – 2026 is tailored for government officials and mid-level professionals from developing States who are directly involved in ocean affairs and marine governance. Fellows will undergo rigorous academic research, gain hands-on training at the UN Headquarters, and engage with the global legal and policy framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Fellowship Structure
Phase One: UN Headquarters, New York (3 Months)
Fellows begin the programme with advanced training and research under the supervision of DOALOS in New York, from approximately March to June 2026. This phase focuses on UNCLOS, marine science, and international maritime frameworks.
Phase Two: Host Institution (6 Months)
The second part of the fellowship (approximately July to December 2026) is conducted at a recognised academic or research institution. Fellows pursue an independent research project aligned with their country’s needs in ocean affairs.
Required Outputs
- A comprehensive 100-page thesis
- A final oral presentation
- An actionable ocean governance matrix
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must:
- Be aged 25 to 45 at the time of application
- Hold a first university degree (minimum requirement)
- Be a mid-level professional from a developing country
- Be directly engaged in activities related to ocean affairs and the law of the sea
- Demonstrate strong research and analytical skills
- Be able to fully commit to the 9-month programme without interruption
Gender balance and inclusion of persons with disabilities are actively encouraged.
Fellowship Benefits
- Full funding including travel, accommodation, and living allowance
- Structured academic and professional mentorship
- Direct exposure to UN systems and global maritime policy actors
- Strengthened capacity to implement national ocean policies
- Long-term career impact through access to global networks
Key Dates and Application Process
- Application Deadline: 14 September 2025
- Fellowship Period: March – December 2026
- Award Notification: December 2025
Required Documents:
- Completed Application and Nomination Forms
- A detailed Research/Study Programme
- A valid passport copy
Applications must be submitted through the online portal and emailed to: doalos@un.org
How to Apply
Ready to take your marine policy career to the next level? Follow these steps to apply:
- Download the application forms from the official UN website
- Draft a relevant and country-specific research proposal
- Obtain official nomination from your employer or government
- Submit all documentation online and via email before the deadline
👉 Click here to Apply
👉 Click here to Read More about the Programme
Fellowship Impact
Since 2004, the UN‑Nippon Foundation Fellowship has trained over 300 fellows from 85+ countries, collaborating with more than 40 host institutions. The fellowship plays a pivotal role in enhancing national capacities for ocean governance, marine protection, and sustainable development (especially SDG 14: Life Below Water).
By equipping professionals with critical knowledge and experience, this programme helps countries effectively navigate challenges related to maritime boundaries, environmental protection, shipping regulations, and marine resource management.
For support with proposal drafting, refining, and application review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
