Empowering the Next Generation of Scholars on China’s Global Role

The Global Development Policy Center (GDP Center) at Boston University is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 Global China Fellows Program — a flagship initiative of the Global China Initiative (GCI).

Since its inception in 2017, this prestigious fellowship has supported over 40 pre- and post-doctoral fellows from across the world in conducting policy-oriented research on China’s overseas economic engagement and its role in shaping global development, sustainability, and governance.

About the Global China Fellows Program

The Global China Fellows Program offers a unique, immersive research experience for scholars eager to understand and shape how China’s global activities influence economic stability, environmental sustainability, and human well-being.

Through close collaboration with GDP Center researchers, BU faculty members, and Global South–based institutions, fellows conduct high-impact research that bridges academic inquiry and real-world policy making.

Each fellow is paired with a Boston University faculty member, GDP Center Senior Academic Researcher, or Non-Resident Senior Fellow to work on one of four core research streams:

• Data Analysis for Transparency and Accountability (D.A.T.A.)
• Forestry, Agriculture, and Indigenous Rights (FAIR)
• Energy and Climate
• China and the International Financial Architecture (CHIFA)

Fellows dedicate 20 hours per week to collaborative research and another 20 to their independently led project, guided by expert mentorship. By the end of their fellowship year, each participant will produce at least one policy-relevant working paper.

Program Objectives

The fellowship’s mission is to cultivate the next generation of interdisciplinary, policy-oriented scholars who can translate research into meaningful global impact. Fellows are trained to analyze China’s overseas engagements through economic, environmental, and institutional lenses — and to contribute directly to policy dialogues that advance global development.

The program has a proven track record of producing alumni who now serve in academic leadership, global institutions, and development organizations, including:

• Peking University
• University of Denver
• Overseas Development Institute
• Boston Consulting Group

Eligibility Criteria

Required Qualifications:

• Pre-doctoral applicants: must have completed qualifying exams and defended a dissertation proposal.
• Post-doctoral applicants: must have successfully defended their dissertation by August 2026.
• Demonstrated research interest in China’s overseas economic activities and international engagement.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with regions such as Africa, Latin America, or Southeast Asia.
• Fluency in Chinese or a relevant regional language.
• Expertise in topics like:
  • Energy access, renewable energy, and climate policy
  • Biodiversity, indigenous rights, and geospatial analysis
  • Reform of global financial systems and debt sustainability
• Quantitative and modeling experience in social or natural sciences, engineering, or business.

Fellowship Benefits

Most appointments will be made for the 2026–2027 academic year. Fellows will:

• Receive a competitive stipend to support fieldwork, conference travel, and professional development.
• Work in person at Boston University’s GDP Center offices.
• Join a global network of peers and mentors driving evidence-based policy innovation.

Application Process

To apply, send one PDF document containing the following materials here with the subject line:
“[LastName_FirstName] GCI Fellow Application 2026–2027.”

Required components:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. 1–2 page cover letter describing academic background and research interests
3. 1–2 page working paper proposal (research question, methodology, and significance)
4. Contact information for two references

Application Deadline: December 19, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting in October. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

International Candidates

International applicants are welcome. However, those with J-1 visas must obtain institutional approval to earn income from another organization. The Boston University International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) will assist eligible fellows in evaluating the most appropriate visa classification for their appointment.

 About the GDP Center

The Boston University Global Development Policy Center advances policy-oriented research that promotes financial stability, human well-being, and environmental sustainability worldwide. Through programs like the Global China Fellows, the center bridges the gap between academia and policymaking, empowering future leaders to shape a more equitable global order.

Apply by December 19, 2025 to join a dynamic global community advancing sustainable development through evidence-based research.

Apply Now: here

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