The Postdoctoral Fellowship Program in International Trade: Connecting Africa—is an initiative aimed at uniting Africa’s scholars to shape forward-looking, evidence-based policies that strengthen regional integration and unlock the continent’s development potential. Please note that the fellowship is unpaid.

About the Fellowship

The Postdoctoral Fellowship Program in International Trade: Connecting Africa offers a unique opportunity for professionals to contribute directly to the design and advocacy of empirical, high-impact international trade policies and strategies. Fellows will collaborate with governments, regional bodies, international institutions, NGO, local media, and universities to drive policy solutions that are rooted in data, research, and the lived realities of African economies.

This is more than a fellowship—it’s a mission to co-create policy frameworks that can shape the lives of millions.

Who Should Apply

We welcome applications from individuals with a strong commitment to public service, economic development, and evidence-based policymaking in developing countries, including:

  • PhD holders in related fields who believe they can make a meaningful contribution to the fellowship’s mission.
  • Professors, researchers, academic professionals, and recent graduates with expertise in economics, trade, development studies, or related fields

Our Vision

The fellowship supports the broader mission of Connecting Africa regionally and globally through international trade and policy innovation. Fellows will help:

  • Promote regional trade integration and productive transformation
  • Increasing African shares in global markets
  • Design data-driven trade policies for inclusive and sustainable growth
  • Create decent work opportunities and reduce poverty
  • Advocate for systems that enhance living conditions and long-term prosperity

Why Join the Fellowship?

As a Fellow, you will:

  • Engage in policy design that has real-world impact
  • Contribute to shaping the future of African trade and development
  • Work within a global network of experts, leaders, and changemakers
  • Champion a social cause that puts people and communities at the center

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

  • A current CV
  • A statement of motivation (max. 500 words) explaining your interest in the fellowship and how your experience aligns with our mission

Email your application to: fellowship@gticonnect.org

For more information, visit www.gticonnect.org