Ethics and Technology Practitioner Fellowship

How do you define “practitioner?”

Practitioners refer to individuals who actively engage in a professional field or discipline, applying their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts. They are often tied to organizations, institutions, or fields of practice in business, government, or civil society, and have a direct influence on the development and deployment of technology or its effects on society. Our definition here emphasizes practical experience and expertise.  

How do you define “mid-career?”

Generally, it is a time when your career begins to solidify into a more predictable path, past entry-level positions but before executive-level functions. In this window, professionals typically have a degree of freedom or creativity to apply a developed set of skills toward new projects or interventions typical to this program. 

How do I know whether my background is sufficiently linked to “technology”

Your work experience and professional life must have an influence on the development of technology or its impacts, regardless of your discipline. A formal degree in a technical field is also not required. 

Do I need to be employed to be considered?

No. Individuals currently unemployed are still encouraged to apply provided they have enough practitioner knowledge and experience, including a strong familiarity with a professional context (fields, organizations etc.)

Is the fellowship fulltime?

No. The “Non-resident” aspect is designed to fit the schedules of working professionals, with convenings at the beginning and end of Fellowship year. Many fellows will hold full time jobs while in the program. Other Fellows might be in job transition. 

Do you take international applicants?

Yes, we encourage international applicants to consider applying. Diverse geographical, cultural, and professional backgrounds bring more varied perspectives to enrich the experience for all participants. Before applying, please note that we are only able to consider a limited number of international participants due to time, budget, and logistical difficulties with international travel. 

How do you define “Fellowship?”

In this context, our (non-resident) Fellowship is a structured program that provides selected practitioners with opportunities for professional development, networking, and project-based funding. It is a supportive environment designed to enhance Fellows’ skills, expand their knowledge, and contribute to their professional fields while in a cohort dynamic. This “non-resident” program differs from other resident fellowships in universities that are focused on teaching or academic research.  Please note: while academic concepts and inquiry are part of this program, it is not an invitation for proposals for academic research. 

Are academics allowed to apply?

Academic professionals (e.g. professors, PhD scholars, post-doctoral scholars, or program staff at universities) may apply who either have prior practitioner experience (see “practitioner” definition) or a strong orientation toward impacting professional norms and institutions like business, government, civil society, or the institution of academia itself.  For example, projects can include proposals to intervene in ethically questionable practices in academic research. However, we are not inviting proposals for academic research itself.  

Are students allowed to apply?

Our fellowship program is specifically designed for established, mid-career, professionals with a requisite level of experience in their field. Therefore, we do not accept applications from current students without any professional experience or practitioner orientation. However, we encourage recent graduates who have begun their professional careers to consider applying if they meet the criteria outlined in our application guidelines.

Are consultants practitioners?

Yes, consultants are considered practitioners as long as they are actively engaged in a professional practice and possess relevant expertise. 

Can you explain more about each “theme?”

Our themes help us create better affinity between Fellows.  Longer descriptions on each theme can be found in the application.  

I have sent you my project idea, summary of my background, and resume/CV by email. Should I apply?

Unfortunately we do not have the capacity to evaluate every circumstance before application review. Please make sure you have read through our application and FAQ, and if your circumstances are not addressed, you may email us. 

I am unable to travel to make in-person commitments. Can I participate remotely? 

Unfortunately, we do require in-person participation. However, we have programs geared more toward remote participation such as our Ethics, Technology and Public Policy course for Practitioners. We also hope to create future programming opportunities accessible to broader audiences. 

I’d like to submit a letter of recommendation.  Where can I do so? 

We do not take written letters of recommendation for the application process. Instead, the process requires applicants to name references and if shortlisted, will reach out to references with a brief questionnaire.