WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies [Fully-funded]
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is offering doctoral students from developing countries the opportunity to participate in the WTO Support Programme where they can conduct research at the WTO with mentorship and guidance from academic supervisors. This program aims to enhance academic expertise on WTO issues in developing nations.
Program Overview
The WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies, also known as the PhD Internship Programme, provides a valuable opportunity for doctoral students to conduct research at the WTO Secretariat. Here are some key details:
SUMMARY:
- Organisation: World Trade Organisation (WTO)
- Internship Location: WTO Secretariat
- Internship Duration: Up to a maximum of six months
- Available Slot: Several
- Basic Qualifications: Doctoral Students
- Nationality: WTO member countries & Developing countries
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the WTO Support Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a national of a WTO member state or a country engaged in accession negotiations
- Be from a least-developed country (LDC) or a developing country
- Be pursuing a PhD in economics, law, international relations, or related field
- Be in the final stage of their PhD with at least 75% completion of the thesis
- Be proficient in English, French, or Spanish
Program Benefits
Participants in the PhD Internship Programme will receive the following benefits:
- A daily allowance of CHF 60 (including weekends and holidays)
- Travel expenses (economy class air fare) to and from Geneva covered by the WTO
- Health insurance coverage required in Switzerland (interns must arrange this before starting the internship)
Application Procedures
How to Apply: Interested candidates can apply for the WTO Support Programme by filling out the application form and submitting the necessary documents.
Interns do not have guaranteed employment at the WTO after the internship, but they are free to apply for other positions within the organization.
Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
FAQs
What is the WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies?
The WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies is a fully funded initiative designed to assist doctoral students from developing and least-developed countries whose research focuses on trade-related issues relevant to the work of the World Trade Organization. It offers financial and academic support to help scholars complete their PhD theses while benefiting from access to WTO resources and experts.
Who is eligible to apply for the WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies?
Eligibility is open to doctoral students who are nationals of developing or least-developed countries and are in the final stages of their PhD. Applicants must be researching a trade-related topic of direct relevance to the WTO’s work and should be enrolled at a recognized university. Proficiency in one of the WTO’s working languages—English, French, or Spanish—is also required.
What benefits does the programme provide to selected candidates?
The programme provides full financial coverage, including a monthly stipend, travel costs, and health insurance. In addition to funding, successful candidates gain access to WTO’s library, databases, and research facilities, and they can consult with WTO experts. This environment allows them to enrich their doctoral research and strengthen its policy relevance.
How can one apply for the WTO Support Programme for Doctoral Studies?
Applicants must submit a completed application form, a detailed research proposal, proof of enrolment in a doctoral programme, a curriculum vitae, and a letter of recommendation from their academic supervisor. Applications are typically sent via email to the WTO’s Academic Support Section by the stated deadline in the official call for applications.
