United Nations Ocean Affairs Fellowship 2027: Fully Funded Opportunity for Ocean and Law of the Sea Professionals

Overview

The United Nations Ocean Affairs Fellowship 2027 is a nine-month capacity-building programme for professionals and government officials from developing countries who work in ocean affairs, marine policy, maritime governance, environmental protection, marine science or the law of the sea. It is supported through cooperation between the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea and the Nippon Foundation. The fellowship combines training connected to the work of the United Nations with a longer academic research placement, and provides financial support for participation.

What you get

The first phase, about three months from 24 March to 30 June 2027, takes place at United Nations Headquarters in New York. Fellows receive specialized training on ocean affairs and the law of the sea and see how international ocean governance and legal frameworks are developed and implemented. The second phase, from 1 July to 17 December 2027, is roughly six months of research at a participating academic institution on a subject related to the fellow's professional work and country needs, under academic supervision. Fellows also build networks with other fellows, UN professionals, academics and experts, and are expected to apply what they learn after returning home.

Who can apply

The fellowship is meant mainly for mid-career professionals and government officials from developing States whose current responsibilities relate directly to ocean affairs, the law of the sea, maritime matters or marine environmental issues. Applicants should normally be between 25 and 45 years old and hold at least a first university degree or equivalent, with professional experience, English-language ability and the capacity to carry out advanced research. They should explain why the training matters for their work and how it would benefit their country. Relevant areas include ocean governance, maritime policy, coastal zone management, maritime security, fisheries, marine conservation and maritime boundary issues.

Key dates

The application deadline is 13 September 2026.