The United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) is now accepting applications for the 2027 United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (UNNF OALOS).
This prestigious nine-month fully supported fellowship is designed for mid-level government officials and professionals from developing countries who are working on ocean governance, marine science, and the implementation of international ocean law. The programme combines training at United Nations Headquarters in New York with advanced academic research at leading host institutions around the world.
Applications close on 13 September 2026.
About the United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship provides advanced education and professional training in:
- Ocean affairs
- Law of the Sea
- Marine science
- Ocean governance
- International maritime policy
The programme equips fellows with the knowledge, practical skills, and research experience needed to strengthen national policies and implement the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and related international instruments.
Upon completion, fellows are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable ocean policies and governance frameworks.
Fellowship Details
- Host Organization: United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS)
- Funding Partner: The Nippon Foundation
- Programme: UN – Nippon Foundation Fellowship on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea
- Duration: 9 Months
- Eligible Countries: Developing States
- Application Deadline: 13 September 2026
Fellowship Structure
The programme consists of two consecutive phases.
Phase One – United Nations Headquarters
Duration: Approximately 3 months (March/April – June)
During this phase, fellows undertake intensive research and training at United Nations Headquarters in New York, where they:
- Study international ocean governance frameworks.
- Learn about the work of the United Nations.
- Develop professional and policy skills.
- Begin their individual research projects.
Phase Two – Host Institution
Duration: Approximately 6 months (July – December)
Fellows continue their research at one of the programme’s participating international host institutions under the supervision of leading experts in their chosen field.
Fellowship Deliverables
During the fellowship, participants are expected to complete:
- A 100-page research thesis
- A formal research presentation
- An ocean governance matrix
- Additional assignments completed during the training curriculum
Fellowship Benefits
The fellowship provides comprehensive support throughout the programme.
Benefits include:
- International training at United Nations Headquarters
- Academic placement at a prestigious host institution
- Individual academic supervision
- Professional development in ocean governance
- Exposure to international legal and policy frameworks
- Opportunities to build a global professional network
- Financial support covering fellowship-related expenses in accordance with programme conditions, including travel, stipend, insurance, visas, and accommodation arrangements
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be between 25 and 45 years of age.
- Hold at least a first university degree.
- Demonstrate the ability to undertake independent academic research.
- Be a mid-level professional working for:
- A national government in a developing State, or
- Another governmental or non-governmental organization dealing directly with ocean affairs.
- Hold a position that enables them to contribute directly to national ocean policy development or implementation.
- Submit a nomination and recommendation from an authorized government or organizational official.
- Propose a research programme that directly supports their country’s ocean governance priorities.
- Be available for the full fellowship period without conflicting professional obligations unless otherwise authorized.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship is particularly suitable for professionals working in areas such as:
- Ocean governance
- Marine policy
- Maritime law
- Marine science
- Fisheries management
- Coastal resource management
- Environmental protection
- Climate and ocean policy
- Blue economy
- Maritime administration
Gender and Geographic Diversity
The programme is committed to promoting equal opportunities and geographical diversity among participants.
Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Reasonable accommodations are also available for applicants with disabilities where required.
How to Apply
Applicants should complete the official fellowship application and submit all required documentation before the application deadline.
Applications must include:
- Completed application forms
- Nomination and Recommendation Form
- Research proposal
- Academic qualifications
- Supporting documentation demonstrating eligibility
Only applications submitted during the official call for applications will be considered.
Why Apply?
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship is one of the world’s leading professional development programmes in ocean governance. It offers participants the rare opportunity to study at United Nations Headquarters, conduct advanced research with internationally recognized experts, and strengthen the skills needed to shape national and international ocean policies. Graduates of the programme return to their countries equipped to lead sustainable ocean management, marine conservation, and implementation of international law.
Application Deadline: 13 September 2026
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