Fellowships

Remote Junior Research Fellowship 2026: SRIc Sustainability Lab Opens Applications for Emerging Researchers

The Shwetaungthagathu Reform Initiative Centre (SRIc) is recruiting a Remote Junior Research Fellow for its Sustainability Lab. Learn about the eligibility criteria, responsibilities, benefits, and application process for this six-month fellowship opportunity.

Remote Junior Research Fellowship 2026: SRIc Sustainability Lab Opens Applications for Emerging Researchers

Aspiring researchers passionate about sustainability, governance, public policy, and social transformation have an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience through the Junior Research Fellowship 2026 offered by the Shwetaungthagathu Reform Initiative Centre (SRIc). Hosted within the organization’s Sustainability Lab, this remote, part-time fellowship is designed to provide emerging professionals with practical exposure to policy research, sustainability analysis, and knowledge dissemination.

Running from 1 September 2026 to 28 February 2027, the six-month fellowship offers participants the opportunity to contribute to meaningful research projects while working alongside experienced researchers and sustainability experts. Although the programme is unpaid, it provides valuable mentorship, professional development opportunities, and access to a growing network of practitioners working in sustainability and governance.

Applications close on 25 July 2026.

About the Shwetaungthagathu Reform Initiative Centre (SRIc)

The Shwetaungthagathu Reform Initiative Centre, commonly known as SRIc, is a non-partisan think-and-do tank and consultancy organization dedicated to advancing sustainable governance, policy innovation, and sustainability literacy in Myanmar.

Through its Sustainability Lab, SRIc conducts policy-oriented research and analytical projects that seek to promote sustainable development and contribute to a more resilient, equitable, and environmentally conscious future. Guided by its motto, “Advocating Sustainability, Shaping Our Future,” the organization supports evidence-based policymaking through research, strategic advocacy, ESG-focused consultation, and sustainability roadmap development.

By bringing together researchers, policymakers, educators, and development practitioners, SRIc seeks to address some of Myanmar’s most pressing social, environmental, and governance challenges.

Understanding the PolyLens Project

One of the flagship initiatives supporting this fellowship is the Myanmar Polycrisis through the Lens of Sustainability (PolyLens) Project.

The PolyLens Project is a structured research and publication initiative designed to deepen understanding of Myanmar’s interconnected political, social, economic, and environmental challenges through a sustainability-focused perspective.

The project produces:

  • Weekly analytical publications
  • Policy commentaries
  • Research articles
  • Quarterly reports
  • Podcast discussions
  • Public engagement initiatives

Content is disseminated through The Sabai Online & Quarterly, SRIc’s public knowledge platform, and the Sabai Podcast Series, which aim to make sustainability-related issues accessible to wider audiences.

Through these platforms, the fellowship provides participants with a rare opportunity to contribute directly to public discourse and policy discussions.

About the Junior Research Fellowship Programme

The Junior Research Fellowship has been created for motivated individuals who want to strengthen their research capabilities while contributing to sustainability governance and policy reform efforts.

The programme combines academic learning with practical experience, allowing fellows to participate in real-world research projects while receiving mentorship from experienced professionals.

The fellowship places a strong emphasis on:

  • Sustainability research
  • Policy analysis
  • Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
  • Critical thinking
  • Science communication
  • Public engagement
  • Evidence-based advocacy

Participants will work closely with senior researchers and contribute to ongoing initiatives that support sustainable development and governance reform.

Fellowship Details

Position

Junior Research Fellow (Sustainability Lab)

Location

Remote

Type

Part-Time Internship

Duration

1 September 2026 – 28 February 2027

Monthly Commitment

30 hours per month

Total Fellowship Hours

180 hours over six months

Reporting To

Program Manager and Consulting Director

Application Deadline

25 July 2026

Key Responsibilities

The Junior Research Fellow will support a variety of research and knowledge-sharing activities within the Sustainability Lab.

Research Support

A major component of the fellowship involves conducting both primary and secondary research on sustainability-related issues.

Research topics may include:

  • Sustainable development
  • Environmental governance
  • Education policy
  • Regional development
  • Public policy reform
  • ESG-related issues

Fellows will assist in gathering evidence, analyzing information, and generating insights that support SRIc’s broader research agenda.

Publication Development

Participants will contribute to the preparation and publication of research outputs.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Drafting research summaries
  • Writing analytical articles
  • Supporting policy brief development
  • Editing publications
  • Conducting peer reviews

These tasks help fellows develop practical writing and publication skills that are highly valued in research and policy careers.

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Event Coordination

The fellowship also involves supporting events that promote learning and stakeholder engagement.

Fellows may assist with:

  • Webinars
  • Workshops
  • Seminars
  • Training programmes
  • Public discussions

This exposure helps participants understand how research findings are communicated to diverse audiences.

Data Management

The successful candidate will assist in collecting, organizing, and analyzing research data.

This responsibility supports evidence-based decision-making while strengthening participants’ analytical capabilities.

Collaborative Research

The fellowship encourages interdisciplinary collaboration.

Participants will work closely with:

  • Senior researchers
  • Junior researchers
  • Research assistants
  • Graphic designers
  • Sustainability experts

This collaborative environment promotes knowledge sharing and professional growth.

Maintaining Research Standards

Fellows are expected to ensure that all research activities adhere to SRIc’s ethical guidelines, quality standards, and research procedures.

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is designed for young professionals and emerging researchers who are eager to develop their careers in sustainability and policy research.

Eligible applicants should:

  • Be graduates or young professionals
  • Be between 26 and 30 years old
  • Demonstrate strong interest in sustainability and development issues
  • Possess excellent communication skills in both English and Burmese
  • Show enthusiasm for research and science communication
  • Have the ability to work independently and collaboratively

Candidates with a moderate understanding of sustainability concepts, particularly in relation to education and development, will be well positioned for success.

Skills and Competencies

SRIc is seeking candidates who demonstrate:

Research Interest

Applicants should be genuinely interested in conducting research and contributing to evidence-based policy discussions.

Communication Skills

Strong written and verbal communication abilities are essential for preparing reports, articles, and research outputs.

Organizational Skills

The ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines is important in a remote research environment.

Problem-Solving Ability

Successful fellows should be proactive, adaptable, and capable of identifying solutions to research challenges.

Teamwork

While independent work is required, collaboration remains a key aspect of the fellowship.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Although the Junior Research Fellowship is unpaid, participants receive several valuable benefits.

Mentorship and Professional Guidance

Fellows gain access to experienced supervisors, researchers, and sustainability professionals who provide guidance throughout the programme.

Learning Opportunities

Participants receive complimentary access to SRIc and partner training courses, supporting both academic and professional development.

Networking Opportunities

The programme enables fellows to build relationships with experts, researchers, policymakers, and fellow participants.

Certificate of Completion

Participants who successfully complete the six-month programme will receive an official Certificate of Internship Completion.

Recommendation Letters

Outstanding fellows may receive recommendation letters that can support future university applications, scholarships, fellowships, and employment opportunities.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must prepare and submit:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Academic Diploma and Certificates
  • A sample article or writing sample

Applications must be submitted through SRIc’s online application platform before the deadline.

Application Deadline

25 July 2026

Final Thoughts

The SRIc Junior Research Fellowship 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for aspiring sustainability researchers to gain practical experience within a respected policy and research institution. Through participation in the PolyLens Project and other Sustainability Lab initiatives, fellows will develop valuable research, analytical, communication, and policy-writing skills while contributing to important discussions on sustainable development and governance.

For young professionals seeking meaningful research experience, mentorship, and exposure to real-world policy challenges, this fellowship provides a strong foundation for future careers in sustainability, public policy, international development, and governance. With applications closing on 25 July 2026, interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their submissions and take advantage of this unique learning opportunity.

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