UK Government DSIT Fellowship Cohort 4 (Open Worldwide)

The DSIT Fellowship Cohort 4 (2026/2027) in the United Kingdom is a 12-month part-time policy secondment program for mid to senior level experts in science innovation and technology. It places you inside the UK government to work on real policy projects in areas like AI, data, quantum engineering, biology and more. Your employer gets salary reimbursement so you can focus on government work without losing pay. It is not for students or early-career people. You must be connected to top UK institutions like the Royal Society or Royal Academy of Engineering. Also see Worth of $300,000 Canada Fellowship 2027.

DSIT Fellowship Cohort 4 Overview

What is the DSIT Fellowship 2026/2027?

The Department for Science Innovation and Technology (DSIT) runs this program to bring experienced professionals into government. You work part-time on important national policy projects while keeping your regular job. It helps bridge the gap between research industry and government. You get to influence real decisions in fast-growing areas like AI and data. The program is small and very selective. It is perfect for people who want to move into policy or advisory roles.

Fellowship Benefits

You get practical career benefits.

• Your employer receives salary reimbursement so you can join without financial loss.
• Direct work on national science and technology policy.
• Access to senior government leaders and decision makers.
• Training inside the UK Civil Service system.
• Chance to build strong policy networks.
• Experience that looks very good on your CV for future leadership roles.
• Opportunity to shape important projects in AI, quantum and emerging tech.

Also See: 30,000 € Klaus Töpfer Sustainability Fellowship 2027 (Fully Funded)

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be a mid to late-career expert.
• You should already work in science, innovation, technology, engineering, economics or related fields.
• You need strong affiliation with top UK bodies like the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering or British Computer Society.
• You must have significant professional experience and recognition in your field.
• It is not suitable for undergraduate master’s, PhD students or early-career people.
• You need institutional backing and clear interest in policy work.

Required Documents

You need these papers.

• Updated CV showing your expertise and achievements.
• Strong motivation statement about your policy interests.
• Letter of support from your employer or institution.
• Details of your current role and research or work.
• Any evidence of policy or leadership experience.

How to Apply for DSIT Fellowship 2026/2027

1. Check if you meet all eligibility rules.
2. Talk to your employer or institution for support.
3. Prepare your CV and motivation statement.
4. Watch for official application opening on the DSIT or government website.
5. Submit your application with all documents.
6. If shortlisted attend matching conversations (May–June 2026).
7. Final selections happen in late summer 2026.
8. If selected start the secondment.

Important Dates / Deadline

• Applications will open soon.
• Interviews and matching conversations: mid-May to mid-June 2026.
• Final selections: late summer 2026.
• Fellowship starts in 2026/2027.
• Check official sites regularly for exact dates.

Official Link

DSIT Fellowship Programme