The Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, also known as the Angelicum, together with the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, has announced the 2026 John Paul II Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme. This academic initiative, organised through the Faculty of Social Sciences (FASS), invites scholars to conduct advanced research on the social and ethical implications of agentic artificial intelligence and digital environments. The programme honours the legacy of Pope John Paul II, who studied at the Angelicum in the 1940s and later founded the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences in 1994. Through this fellowship, the institutions aim to strengthen the relationship between Catholic social teaching and modern social science research. The application deadline is 19 April 2026 Angelicum Fellowship Theme for 2026 The 2026 cohort will focus on the theme: “Building a Response to Agentic AI and the Virtual World Using Relational Social Science.” Researchers will explore how emerging technologies—particularly AI agents and digital platforms—are reshaping human relationships, institutions, and ethical frameworks. The programme encourages scholars to apply relational sociology and civil economy approaches, especially those developed by Pierpaolo Donati and Stefano Zamagni, to examine technological transformations. The goal is to produce research that helps the Church and broader society respond to the ethical, social, and economic challenges created by AI-driven systems. Angelicum Key Research Areas Applicants are invited to propose innovative projects addressing the relationship between technology, society, and human dignity. Suggested research themes include, but are not limited to, the following areas. 1. Human Identity in the Digital Age Scholars may explore how digital technologies influence our understanding of human nature, dignity, and identity. Modern technological systems often position algorithms and data as the primary drivers of social organization, raising questions about whether traditional humanistic values can remain central in the digital age. Researchers may investigate whether relational anthropology can provide a framework for distinguishing between human and non-human agency in increasingly hybrid environments. 2. Transhumanism and Ethical Transformation Another possible research direction examines transhumanism, which challenges traditional views of human nature by promoting technological enhancement and integration between humans and machines. Projects in this area may analyze the ethical, philosophical, and political implications of transhumanist thought and explore responses grounded in Catholic social teaching. 3. Digital Relationships and Social Simulation Modern AI systems can simulate human interaction but often lack genuine relational understanding. According to relational sociology theory, many digital platforms create asymmetrical forms of companionship, where AI appears socially responsive but does not engage in genuine mutual responsibility or shared norms. Research projects may examine: The replacement of embodied human relationships with digital interactions The social effects of algorithmic companionship How relational frameworks can restore meaningful social engagement 4. Agentic AI and Autonomous Systems A central theme of the programme is the rise of agentic AI, meaning artificial intelligence capable of acting autonomously in digital ecosystems. Scholars may explore different models of AI development, including: AI as an adviser: systems that support human decision-making while keeping humans in control Autonomous AI agents: systems that act independently on behalf of users These models have radically different implications for governance, responsibility, and ethical accountability. The programme also encourages research into emerging technologies such as organoid intelligence, which uses biological neural structures to power computational systems. Academic Activities and Learning Opportunities During the fellowship year, researchers will collaborate with faculty members and experts from both institutions. Fellows may also participate in up to four academic courses offered by the Faculty of Social Sciences in areas such as: Catholic Social Teaching History of Christian social thought Applied ethics Social philosophy Additional courses may be assigned depending on the fellow’s academic background and research project. Why This Fellowship Matters The John Paul II Post-Doctoral Fellowship aims to bridge the gap between theological tradition and contemporary social science research. Many modern social science frameworks are built on individualistic or collectivist models that may not fully capture the relational dimension of human life emphasized in Catholic social teaching. The fellowship promotes an alternative vision rooted in: Relational sociology Civil economy theory Ethical reflection grounded in Christian anthropology Through interdisciplinary research, the programme seeks to produce insights that help address the social challenges created by emerging digital technologies. Fellowship Benefits Selected fellows will receive several forms of academic and financial support. Benefits include: €2,000 travel budget for four round-trip flights to Rome €3,600 stipend for research and living expenses (paid in two instalments) Full coverage of academic programme fees for one year Funding support for research publication costs Opportunities to attend academic events hosted by the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences The fellowship includes four intensive visits to Rome, combined with online collaboration throughout the academic year. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must meet the following criteria: Hold a PhD or Doctorate in fields such as sociology, economics, psychology, ethics, theology, or political science Demonstrate an interest in Catholic Social Teaching and social engagement Possess English proficiency at least at B1 level Candidates from related disciplines are also welcome if their research connects to the programme theme. Application Requirements Applicants must submit the following documents: Official Postdoctoral Application Form Personal Statement of Motivation explaining their academic vocation and interest in the programme Curriculum Vitae (maximum four pages) Research Proposal (1000–1500 words) outlining: Research focus and theoretical framework Contribution to understanding AI and digital society Methodology and research activities Expected outcomes and publications Academic transcripts and diplomas Copy of passport or ID Academic letter of recommendation Successful candidates will later need a letter of presentation from a religious organisation for university enrolment. Programme Timeline Key dates for the fellowship include: 19 April 2026 – Application deadline 18 May 2026 – Notification of selected candidates 25 May 2026 – Acceptance deadline 30 June 2026 – Completion of registration October 2026 – June 2027 – Fellowship activities, including online meetings and research visits to Rome The first in-person visit is tentatively scheduled for 18–22 October 2026. Final Thoughts The John Paul II Post-Doctoral Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for scholars interested in AI ethics, digital society, and Catholic social thought. By combining theological insight with social science research, the programme aims to develop meaningful responses to the challenges posed by agentic AI and virtual environments. For researchers seeking to contribute to ethical technology development and human-centred social innovation, this fellowship represents a distinctive academic opportunity. APPLY HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this funding. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.