The Digital Democracy Centre (DDC), an interdisciplinary research unit based at the University of Southern Denmark, in partnership with TrygFonden, is inviting researchers, journalists, and policymakers to apply for its interdisciplinary initiative, which examines the profound effects of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on media, politics, and democratic processes.
The fellowship is available in three different tracks as follows:
- Academic Fellows: Investigate the theoretical and empirical dimensions of digital democracy, AI governance and algorithmic accountability.
- Journalist Fellows: Produce in-depth reporting on digital threats to democratic integrity, including disinformation, microtargeting and automated journalism.
- Policy Fellows: Contribute to regulatory debates and the development of practical frameworks for responsible digital governance.
The Fellowship programme seeks to advance understanding of how digital technologies shape democratic processes by fostering cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research, while simultaneously translating these insights into policy briefs, educational resources, and public seminars; it also aims to build enduring partnerships among fellows, DDC researchers, and external stakeholders to ensure sustained collaboration and impact.
Fellows benefit from flexible tenures of two to twelve months beginning in early 2026, personalised mentorship by a designated DDC researcher alongside guidance from an interdisciplinary Steering Committee, and comprehensive support, including financial assistance (salary subsidy or stipend), full access to DDC facilities and speaker series, and membership in the DDC alumni network.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following materials in English by September 15, 2025:
Project Proposal:
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- Title and abstract (1,000 characters max.)
- Detailed timeline and methodology (2,400 characters max.)
- Confirmation of mentorship by a DDC researcher
- Description of collaboration with a practice partner (1,000 characters max.)
- Expected outcomes and impact (500 characters max.)
Curriculum Vitae: Maximum five pages.
Budget Overview: Outline of financial support requested (e.g., travel, housing, research costs).
Applicants will be notified of the selection committee’s decision by October 15, 2025.
Applicants should please complete the official application form and submit, together with their CV (PDF), to ddc@sdu.dk using the subject line: DDC / TrygFonden Fellowship application
For inquiries regarding eligibility or the application process, contact:
ddc@sdu.dk, using ‘Question – DDC / TrygFonden Fellowship application’ as the subject.
