Applications are open for the 2026–27 Columbia Global Energy Fellows Program, a year-long opportunity for graduate students at Columbia University who are interested in energy, climate, geopolitics, economic development and the global energy transition.

Hosted through Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy (CGEP), the programme brings together selected graduate students with energy experts and researchers while providing opportunities to deepen their understanding of global energy issues and develop professional experience relevant to careers in the energy sector.

About the Global Energy Fellows Program

The Columbia Global Energy Fellows Program is designed to engage graduate students in critical discussions around major energy challenges while connecting them with the research and expertise of the Center on Global Energy Policy.

The programme will select 15 students for the 2026–27 cohort. Fellows will have opportunities to engage with CGEP experts, receive mentorship and support CGEP Scholars on relevant research and initiatives.

The programme is intended to complement students’ graduate studies while helping them build knowledge, networks and experience for future careers in energy.

Areas of Interest

Global Energy Fellows can engage with a broad range of energy-related research areas. Applicants may select up to three topics that interest them most.

Energy, Power and Conflict

This area examines how states compete, cooperate and project influence through energy systems amid increasing geopolitical fragmentation.

Strategic Energy Capacity

The focus includes energy, industrial capacity and critical minerals as instruments of geopolitical competition and economic security.

Trade and Energy

This area explores the changing relationship between global trade, industrial policy, climate policy and energy systems.

AI and the Power Sector

Research in this area considers AI-driven electricity demand, grid infrastructure, permitting and the transformation of power systems.

Carbon Management and the Transition

The topic covers carbon management, industrial decarbonisation and the political economy surrounding the energy transition.

Future of Nuclear Energy

This area examines the role of nuclear power in electricity systems, industrial competitiveness and energy security.

Energy for Development

The focus is on the contribution of affordable and reliable energy to economic growth, development and prosperity.

What the Selection Process Looks For

Applicants will be assessed based on several areas, including:

• Academic and professional achievement
• Strong writing and communication skills
• Demonstrated interest in global energy systems
• Interest in energy and climate issues
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion within the global energy system

The application also asks candidates to explain how their academic, professional or personal experiences have prepared them to contribute to or benefit from CGEP’s interdisciplinary work.

Important Dates

• Application deadline: 25 September 2026
• Number of fellows: 15
• Acceptance notifications: October 2026
• Programme period: 2026–27
• Programme duration: One year

About the Center on Global Energy Policy

The Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University examines major energy challenges at the intersection of energy, geopolitics, economic development, markets and the energy transition.

Through research, education and engagement with policymakers and other stakeholders, the Center contributes to discussions on the changing global energy landscape.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 25 September 2026.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity.