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Visiting Research Fellow Programme 2025
Objectives of the Programme
The Visiting Research Fellow Programme (VRFP) is an innovative approach to human capacity development and is designed to help professionals from OPEC Member Countries improve their expertise and technical skills in research in an array of energy-related issues. It does this by providing participants with the opportunity to become involved in the Secretariat's research operation through practical experience and 'learning by doing'.
Professional Benefits to Fellows
- Involvement and close participation in the Secretariat’s research programme and studies;
- Contributing to ongoing projects in the Secretariat’s and strengthening of networks with Member Country professionals;
- Gaining experience at the Secretariat and deepening their knowledge of OPEC and understanding of its goals, priorities and activities;
- Opportunities to involve themselves in cutting-edge research and hands-on experience of policy issues in climate change and on a range of energy-related topics;
- Enhancing their professional experience through practical work assignments;
- Exposure to a rich international environment and interaction with researchers from OPEC Members and other countries;
- Broadening their career possibilities as a result of the experience and insights gained at OPEC. General Eligibility Requirements
- The programme is open to applicants from Member Countries only. They must be nominated and supported by their respective OPEC Governors;
- Applicants should be professionals with a minimum of five years of relevant work experience;
- Applicants must be familiar with research methodology and should have a proven record of research experience;
- Participants are expected to be able to undertake the programme in English, which is the working language of the Secretariat;
- Applications must be submitted through the relevant Governor for OPEC. Expected Outcome/Deliverables
- Participants in the programme will be involved directly in the research undertakings at the Secretariat and will contribute to them;
- Participants are required to deliver a report to the Secretariat on the findings of their research projects;
- Participants are required to make a presentation at the end of their assignments and to discuss their research findings with members of the Secretariat.
All intellectual property arising from research by the programme’s participants belongs to the Secretariat. An intellectual property and confidentiality agreement will be signed before a successful participant is formally accepted into the programme.
Duration & Working Hours
- The duration of the programme will be up to six months.
- The Visiting Research Fellows are expected to observe the official working hours of the Secretariat.
Application Procedure
Applicants are required to complete the application form, which includes writing an elaborate research proposal that should center on any of the topics listed in the announcement. Applicants are also requested to attach their latest Curriculum Vitae to the completed application form and proceed through their official OPEC Member Country channel.