Policy Research Fellow

About the fellowship:

This Policy Research Fellowship is a one-year, full-time fellowship jointly implemented by The Association of People with Disability (APD) and Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan), Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).

Policy research on persons with disability involves studying how laws, government schemes and institutional practices affect PwD’s access to rights and services, then producing evidence-based recommendations to make policies more inclusive. This could mean researching a specific issue, for example, "Access to Legal Interpretation Services for Deaf Persons in Indian Courts"  by reviewing existing legal provisions, interviewing Deaf individuals and court officials about real barriers they face, comparing India's practices with international standards like the UNCRPD, and producing a policy brief with concrete recommendations (such as mandating certified sign language interpreters in courts). Such research directly feeds into advocacy, giving organizations like APD and AYJNISHD evidence-based tools to push for policy change, funding shifts, or new guidelines. It aims to support emerging researchers in conducting such policy-relevant research on issues affecting persons with hearing, language and speech disabilities while building their skills in research, advocacy, and leadership.

Themes:1. Policy Implementation and Governance

1. Access to Quality Services and Rehabilitation
2. Inclusive Education, Employment and Social Protection
3. Technology, Innovation and Digital Inclusion
4. Community Participation, Rights and Advocacy
5. Evidence Generation for Policy and Systems Strengthening

Structure: The fellowship will run for one year in a full-time hybrid mode, with field-based research across different regions of India. Fellows will be supported by dedicated mentors from AYJNISHD and APD, who will provide technical guidance throughout the programme.

The fellowship will begin with an induction and capacity-building programme covering research methodology, disability policy, advocacy and leadership. Fellows will then undertake policy-relevant research in the domain of hearing, language and speech disabilities, including literature review, fieldwork, stakeholder engagement and evidence generation. Regular mentor check-ins, monthly progress reviews, and a mid-year review will support fellows throughout the research process. The programme will conclude with the submission of a research report, policy recommendations and evidence-based advocacy activities. Fellows will present their findings at a closing event, where research outputs will be disseminated and receive fellowship certification.

fellowship Pillars:

1. Mentorship
2. Field Engagement
3. Policy Research
4. Capacity Building

Selection Process Application Deadline: 21 October 2026

1. Written Application Review - Applications will be reviewed based on the Statement of Purpose, proposed research topic, and its relevance to the fellowship.
2. Round 1 Interview - Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview to discuss their research interests, experience and proposed approach.
3. Final Round Interview - Finalists will meet with the selection panel for a detailed discussion before the final selection.
4. Final Selection - Six fellows will be selected to join the fellowship.

Schedule:

August - September 2026: Applications Open

21 October 2026: Application Deadline

October 2026: Selection Process (Application Review & Interviews)

November 2026: Fellowship Begins & Induction Programme

December 2026: Research Proposal & Literature Review

January - June 2027: Field Research & Monthly Mentorship

May 2027: Mid-Year Review

July - August 2027: Research Report Writing

September - October 2027: Policy Advocacy & Stakeholder Engagement

November 2027: Final Presentations & Assessment

December 2027: Fellowship Closure & Certification

Requirements

1. A student enrolled in a masters program, postgraduate student from any discipline (including students in their final year)
2. An early-career professional with an interest in research and public policy.
3. Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given preference during the selection process.
4. Candidates with prior research, fieldwork or lived experience of disability are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

1. Monthly Stipend -  Rs 30,000 per month
2. Travel Support - Reimbursement for local travel and approved field visits
3. Dual Mentorship - Guidance from experts at AYJNISHD and APD
4. Capacity Building - Training in research, advocacy, and leadership
5. Professional Network - Connect with researchers, practitioners, government, and civil society
6. Policy Impact - Develop evidence-based recommendations to inform policy and practice
7. Fellowship Certificate - Certification upon successful completion of the programme