“Empowering growth, shaping the future of energy”
At the GECF, we are committed to fostering the growth and development of both our team members and industry professionals from our member countries. We believe that continuous learning is essential, not only for personal and professional advancement but also for shaping the future of the energy sector. Our training and development programs are designed to equip both internal staff and external professionals with valuable skills and knowledge, particularly in areas related to natural gas and the broader energy industry. Through targeted training programs, specialized courses, and access to a range of educational resources, we support each participant’s journey to becoming a more knowledgeable and impactful contributor to the energy landscape. Stay tuned for updates as we expand our offerings to support career growth and industry expertise at the GECF.
VISITING RESEARCH FELLOW PROGRAM (VRFP)
Program Overview – 2026 Cycle
Objective of the Program
The Visiting Research Fellow Program (VRFP) is an initiative of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) aimed at strengthening analytical and research capacity across Member Countries, fostering applied research on key gas-related issues, and enhancing knowledge exchange between the Secretariat and national institutions.
Target Participants
The Program is designed for mid-career professionals and researchers from GECF Member Countries working in academia, research institutions, government entities, or the energy industry, with demonstrated expertise in natural gas, energy economics, policy, sustainability, or related fields.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be nationals of a GECF Member Country, hold at least a postgraduate degree (master’s level) in a relevant discipline, possess a minimum of five years of relevant professional or academic experience, demonstrate proficiency in English, submit a research proposal aligned with approved VRFP research themes, and obtain endorsement from the respective Executive Board Member.
Duration and Location
The VRFP is conducted for a duration of two (2) to four (4) months and is normally undertaken in person at the GECF Secretariat in Doha or at the Gas Research Institute in Algiers. Remote or hybrid participation can also be considered.
Responsibilities of Fellows
Fellows are expected to conduct high-quality, policy-relevant research aligned with the approved theme, integrate into the work of the hosting Unit, submit interim and final deliverables, present research findings, and comply with the GECF Code of Conduct, confidentiality requirements, and intellectual property provisions.
Financial and Administrative Conditions
Fellows are not considered staff members of the Secretariat. Travel, insurance, and living arrangements are primarily the responsibility of the Fellow.
Completion of the Program
Upon successful completion of the Program and fulfillment of all deliverables, Fellows receive an official Certificate of Completion issued by the GECF Secretariat.
Approved Research Themes for 2026 Cycle
1. AI and the future of investment in upstream natural gas
2. LNG as a strategic fuel for hard-to-abate transport sectors
3. Long-term prospects of natural gas supply in Central Asia
4. Role of LNG in China’s long-term energy security strategy
5. Scaling up natural gas infrastructure in Africa: Innovative solutions and enabling policy frameworks
6. Implications of self-sufficiency strategies on natural gas and broader energy markets
7. Methane emissions: trends, drivers, and outlook for the gas sector
8. LNG’s expanding influence in global gas trade dynamics
9. Evolution of gas pricing mechanisms in global markets
10. Technological aspects of using LNG in the transport sector
Note: within each approved research theme, smaller and more focused research topics may be defined for individual Fellows.
How to Apply
This participation for the Program is open for nomination only. Please approach the Executive Board member of your respective Member Country for the application submission.
We wish you the best of luck and look forward to receiving your nomination submitted by your Member Country.