Overview

The Ambitious Impact Research Program offers a fully-funded, 12-week online fellowship designed to empower aspiring researchers with the skills, experience, and tools needed to address complex global issues and create decision-relevant research.

THE CHALLENGE

PEOPLE:

Many aspiring researchers aim to advance their skills from junior to senior levels or apply their expertise to impactful, mission-driven organizations. However, research institutions often struggle to fill senior-level roles due to a talent gap. This is compounded by the lack of specialized training opportunities in critical areas like cost-effectiveness analysis and intervention prioritization, which are difficult to master through traditional education or professional routes.

IDEAS:

The limited capacity for comprehensive research means countless potentially transformative intervention ideas remain unexplored. Many innovative solutions may be overlooked simply because resources are focused on addressing the most apparent or widely recognized issues.

EVALUATION:

Unlike the for-profit sector, the nonprofit world lacks standardized metrics to measure and evaluate impact effectively. External assessments are vital for helping nonprofits improve their operations, enabling funders to identify high-impact opportunities, and potentially unlocking more funding through increased transparency and demonstrated success.

This program bridges these gaps, fostering skilled researchers who can drive meaningful change in the nonprofit sector.

Who Can Apply?

• Early-career researchers eager to develop practical research skills.
• Professionals in global health, mental health, biosecurity, and related fields seeking to apply effectiveness-based research methodologies.
• Motivated individuals seeking impactful career paths.

Application Procedure

1. Written Application (~30 minutes)
2. Test Task (~3 hours)
3. In-Depth Interview (~60 minutes)

The process takes no more than 10 hours, and only 10-15 candidates will be selected. All applicants will receive a response on their application status.

• Program Dates: 7 April - 27 June 2025

What Financial Support is Available?

• Stipends to support your living expenses during and possibly after the program (financial aid for dependents or childcare is available).
• Assistance with job applications within the research and nonprofit sectors.

Hear from Alumni

The AIM Research Program has been a great experience. My skills in prioritization research and evaluation improved in just 2.5 months. Thanks to the new skills and also the confidence boost from the program, I got a job as a researcher at an animal advocacy organization. Doing the program helped me find an impactful career, and I made some great connections and friends.

- Zuzana Sperlova

Other Details

KEY PROGRAM FEATURES

• Learn essential research methodologies such as theory of change, literature reviews, and decision-making frameworks.
• Collaborate with experienced researchers on practical projects.
• Build a portfolio of intervention reports.
• Receive valuable mentorship and regular feedback.
• Connect with a network of researchers and explore job prospects.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A FELLOW?

• Self-directed learning: Engage with training modules focused on research skills that are directly applicable to practical projects.
• Expert feedback: Receive regular input and constructive feedback on your projects from experienced researchers.
• Mentorship support: Participate in scheduled check-in calls with a mentor for guidance on research, troubleshooting challenges, and career development.
• Impactful research: Contribute to decision-focused research reports aligned with AIM’s ongoing research priorities.
• Networking opportunities: Build connections with seasoned researchers and explore potential career prospects within the field.

For More Information

For more information click here.