Researchers, journalists, and policymakers can now apply for the Digital Democracy Fellowship Program 2027 in Denmark. Fellows will collaborate with experts on digital technology, AI, media, politics, and democracy while receiving financial and professional support.
Overview
Artificial intelligence, digital platforms, misinformation, online political communication, and emerging technologies are transforming how societies function. As these technologies continue to influence media, governance, public debate, and democratic processes, there is a growing need for experts who can help understand and address these changes.
To support this work, the Digital Democracy Centre (DDC) at the University of Southern Denmark, with support from TrygFonden, has opened applications for the Digital Democracy Fellowship Program 2027.
The fellowship brings together researchers, journalists, and policymakers interested in exploring the impact of digital technology and AI on democracy, media, and politics. Selected fellows will collaborate with leading experts, develop new networks, contribute to public debate, and produce practical outputs that can influence research, policy, and society.
About the Fellowship
The Digital Democracy Centre x TrygFonden Fellowship Program is designed to foster collaboration between academia, journalism, and policymaking.
Fellows work closely with a mentor from the Digital Democracy Centre and engage with an interdisciplinary network of researchers and practitioners focused on digital democracy.
The programme aims to generate new knowledge while supporting tangible outputs such as:
- Policy briefs
- Educational resources
- Public talks and presentations
- Research collaborations
- Media outputs
- Public engagement initiatives
- New professional networks
Projects with relevance to Denmark or Danish society are particularly encouraged. Comparative and international projects that generate insights applicable to the Danish context are also welcomed. Projects connected to DDC’s Hybrid Warfare Initiative will receive special consideration in the 2027 cohort.
What Will Fellows Gain?
Successful fellows will receive a range of professional and academic benefits.
Financial Support
Depending on individual agreements, fellows may receive:
- Salary subsidies
- Fellowship stipends
- Travel support
- Housing support
- Research-related support
Mentorship
Each fellow will work directly with a selected mentor from the Digital Democracy Centre, gaining access to expertise across fields such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Digital Media
- Journalism
- Political Communication
- Computer Science
- Law and Technology
- Democracy Studies
- Digital Governance
Access to Networks
Participants will gain access to:
- DDC research networks
- Academic collaborations
- Policy discussions
- Speaker events
- Professional development opportunities
- Alumni networks
Opportunities for Impact
Fellows are encouraged to produce outputs that contribute to public understanding, policymaking, and democratic resilience.
Who Can Apply?
The programme welcomes applicants from diverse professional backgrounds.
Academic Fellows
Researchers working on topics related to digital technology, AI, media, politics, and democracy.
Journalist Fellows
Journalists covering issues related to digital democracy, technology, misinformation, AI, and public communication.
Policy Fellows
Professionals involved in regulatory debates, governance, public policy, or practical implementation related to digital technology and democracy.
The fellowship is open to individuals working in:
- Universities
- Research institutions
- Media organizations
- Government ministries
- NGOs
- Educational institutions
- Policy organizations
- International organizations
The target audience includes researchers, journalism graduates, and policymakers from both national and international contexts.
Fellowship Duration
The programme offers flexibility depending on the project and fellow.
Typical fellowships last:
2 to 6 months
Longer fellowship periods may be considered in exceptional cases.
Selected fellows can begin their fellowship at various points throughout 2027.
Fellowship Expectations
Before applying, candidates must secure confirmation from a Digital Democracy Centre mentor who agrees to support the proposed project.
Applications submitted without a confirmed mentor will automatically be rejected.
Fellows are also expected to:
- Participate in DDC activities
- Engage with researchers and other fellows
- Attend workshops and seminars
- Contribute to public outreach
- Present findings and outcomes
- Submit a short fellowship report after completion
The fellowship may include both remote work and periods spent in Odense, Denmark, depending on the agreed work plan.
How to Apply
Applicants must prepare a project proposal and supporting documents before submission.
Step 1
Identify a suitable mentor at the Digital Democracy Centre and obtain confirmation of mentorship.
Step 2
Develop a fellowship project proposal aligned with the programme’s objectives.
Step 3
Prepare your application documents.
Step 4
Complete the fellowship application form.
Step 5
Submit the application and supporting materials via email before the deadline.
Required Documents
Applications must include:
- Preliminary project title
- Fellowship category (academic, journalist, or policy fellow)
- Project summary
- Detailed project description and timeline
- Fellowship duration and proposed start date
- Confirmed mentor information
- Work plan
- Collaboration plan with external partners
- Expected outputs and impact
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum five pages)
- Budget and funding request information
Applications must be written in English.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Digital Democracy Fellowship Program 2027 is:
1 September 2026
Applicants will be informed of the outcome no later than:
1 October 2026
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | Digital Democracy Centre x TrygFonden Fellowship Program 2027 |
| Host Institution | Digital Democracy Centre, University of Southern Denmark |
| Location | Odense, Denmark (with flexible arrangements) |
| Fellowship Types | Academic, Journalist, Policy |
| Duration | Typically 2–6 Months |
| Funding | Salary Subsidy or Fellowship Stipend Available |
| Focus Areas | AI, Digital Technology, Media, Politics, Democracy |
| Application Deadline | 1 September 2026 |
| Notification Date | By 1 October 2026 |
| Application Language | English |
Conclusion
The Digital Democracy Fellowship Program 2027 offers a valuable opportunity for researchers, journalists, and policymakers interested in understanding how digital technologies and artificial intelligence are shaping democracy, media, and society.
With mentorship from leading experts, access to interdisciplinary networks, financial support opportunities, and the chance to contribute to meaningful public discussions, the programme provides an excellent platform for professionals seeking to advance their work in the field of digital democracy.
Applicants interested in joining the 2027 cohort should begin identifying potential mentors and preparing their project proposals well before the 1 September 2026 deadline.
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