DE MONTFORT UNIVERSITY VISITING POLICY FELLOWSHIP SCHEME

The Policy Unit at De Montfort University invites applications for the DMU Visiting Policy Fellowship for the 2026/27 academic year. This programme is designed to attract scholars, practitioners, pracademics, and policy professionals to contribute their research, writing, or professional experience to different areas of policy nationally or internationally.

The position is open, in terms of rank and discipline, to individuals who can enrich the study and practice of public policy. We particularly welcome applications from:

  • Academic researchers and scholars with expertise in policy-relevant fields
  • Senior policymakers and practitioners from government, law enforcement, civil society, or international organisations
  • Policy professionals whose work is driving innovation in public service delivery
  • Individuals whose research or practice bridges the gap between research and policy

This is a visiting position with a flexible starting date, typically beginning in January 2026 or later. The appointment is ordinarily for a 1-2 year period, depending on the nature of the proposed work and availability.

EXPECTATIONS OF FELLOWS

Successful candidates will be expected to participate in the academic and policy engagement life of the Policy Unit and engage with initiatives at DMU in their fields of expertise. Fellows may:

  • Conduct independent research or collaborative projects with DMU researchers
  • Deliver guest lectures, workshops, webinars, or policy briefings
  • Mentor early-career researchers and doctoral students
  • Contribute to the Policy Unit’s strategic priorities and ongoing initiatives
  • Engage with our government and international partnerships
  • Participate in Policy Unit events, seminars, and knowledge-exchange activities

OUR COMMITENTS

De Montfort University’s Policy Unit is committed to:

  • Supporting research-informed policy development at local, national, and international levels
  • Building strategic partnerships with government, law enforcement, civil society, and international organisations
  • Developing the next generation of policy-engaged researchers
  • Serving as a national hub for policy dialogue and knowledge exchange

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications must be submitted through the Microsoft Form available at: De Montfort University Visiting Policy Fellowship Application – Fill out form

A review of applications will begin on 1st December 2025, and continue on a rolling basis throughout the academic year. Early applications are encouraged.

EQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMITMENT

De Montfort University is committed to equity and diversity within its community and values academic rigour and excellence. We welcome and encourage applications from racialised persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities.

At DMU, research that reflects diverse intellectual traditions, methodologies, and modes of dissemination and translation is valued and encouraged. Candidates are invited to demonstrate their research impact both within and across academic disciplines and in other sectors, such as government, communities, or industry.

DMU seeks to ensure the equitable treatment and full inclusion of persons with disabilities by striving for the implementation of universal design principles. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, the Policy Unit at policyunit@dmu.ac.uk

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, both UK-based and international applicants.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For informal enquiries about the programme, please contact the DMU Policy Unit at: policyunit@dmu.ac.uk

We look forward to welcoming an outstanding scholar or practitioner to our Policy Unit community.