SDG LAB Research Proposal Contest 2026: Internship Opportunity for the Top Three Participants Awarded

SDG LAB Research Proposal Contest 2026: Internship Opportunity for the Top Three Participants awarded. Applications are open to university students and young researchers who want to develop research proposals aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Apply before 15 October 2026.

Background & Programme Description

The SDG LAB Research Proposal Contest 2026, organised by SDG LAB under SDG 360, invites students and young researchers from accredited universities to submit research ideas addressing real-world development challenges.

The contest aims to help participants develop clear, practical and evidence-based research proposals connected to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Benefits and Internship Opportunity

Participants may benefit from:

Research proposal development workshops.
Feedback and guidance from research and industry experts.
An opportunity to present their proposals to an expert panel.
A certificate and souvenirs.
Potential internship opportunities at SDG 360 for the top three participants.

Important: The internship is not guaranteed. The top three participants may be considered, subject to discussion and approval by SDG 360’s CEO or executive management.

Five shortlisted participants will attend two workshops and receive two weeks to develop their proposals further.

Qualifications and Eligibility

The contest is open to students and young researchers enrolled at accredited universities.

Relevant academic fields include:

Economics and Development Studies
Environmental Sciences
International Relations
English and English Language Teaching
Business Administration
Computer Science and Engineering
Global Studies and Governance

Students from other disciplines may also apply if their research ideas meet the contest requirements.

Research Brief Requirements

Applicants should prepare a research brief that includes:

Research topic or title
Research gap or problem
Target group or issue being studied
Proposed methodology
Research timeline
Tentative budget
Alignment with relevant Sustainable Development Goals

The proposal should address a meaningful problem and explain how the research could produce useful evidence or practical recommendations.

Additional Information

Application deadline: 15 October 2026.

The contest follows several stages: submission of a research brief, shortlisting of five participants, two workshops, proposal development and presentation before an expert panel.

The source announcement does not specify a cash award, internship salary or internship duration.

How to Apply

Identify a research question connected to one or more Sustainable Development Goals.
Prepare your research brief using the required elements.
Review your proposal to ensure it is clear and realistic.
Complete the online application form provided by the organisers.
Submit your application before 15 October 2026.

Application link: Visit the SDG LAB Research Proposal Contest announcement

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for the SDG LAB Research Proposal Contest 2026?

Students and young researchers enrolled at accredited universities are eligible to apply.

2. Is an internship guaranteed to participants?

No. The top three participants may be considered for an internship at SDG 360, subject to management approval.

3. What benefits does the contest offer?

Participants can receive research training, expert feedback, proposal presentation experience, a certificate and souvenirs.

4. What is the application deadline?

The stated deadline is 15 October 2026.

5. Do applicants need to submit a research proposal?

Applicants must initially submit a research brief outlining the research topic, gap, target group, methodology, timeline, tentative budget and SDG alignment.

Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares this opportunity for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with SDG LAB or SDG 360. Applicants should consult the organisers for official requirements and application instructions.

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