IDRC offers these research awards annually to Canadians, permanent residents of Canada, and citizens of developing countries pursuing master’s or doctoral studies at a recognized university or having completed a master’s or doctoral program at a recognized university.

As a research award recipient, you will undertake a one-year paid program of research on the topic you submitted when competing for the award. During part of the time (often around 50%), you will be trained in research management through hands-on experience with your chosen program. You will work under the mentorship of a program officer.

These awards focus on research carried out in one or more developing countries. Most research award positions are for 12 months and are based at IDRC’s head office in Ottawa, Canada. A few take place in one of IDRC’s regional offices. Candidates must conduct their research in areas corresponding to IDRC's research priorities.