[#TIOF] TU Fellowship IETF 126

About

Understanding the IETF & IRTF Ecosystem

• The Internet Research Task Force (IRTF) Sessions, The Academic Gateway: The IRTF focuses on the long-term evolution of the Internet through a theoretical lens. Rather than writing strict engineering standards, its Research Groups (RGs) explore foundational, multidisciplinary topics like Human Rights Protocol Considerations (HRPC), privacy-preserving technologies and decentralized architectures. This is an ideal, natural entry point for students and educators.
• The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Sessions, The Technical Foundation: The IETF is where those research concepts eventually transform into practical reality. Through technical Working Groups (WGs), engineers and developers collaborate to write the Request for Comments (RFCs) that keep the global web running today, operating on a philosophy of "rough consensus and running code".

• Two preparation sessions (see Timeline)
• Remote Attendance at the IETF 126 Hackathon and Meeting, which will be conducted from Saturday 18th to Friday 24th July 2026.

Why join this Fellowship?

• Connect Academia with Global Industry: See firsthand how global Internet research is peer-reviewed and advanced by international experts during the research sessions.
• Advocate for Rights-by-Design: Learn how to apply TIOF’s Data-Centric Digital Rights (DCDR) Framework to both research concepts and technical protocols, ensuring future internet architecture protects citizen privacy by design.
• Enhance Your Professional Portfolio: Gaining hands-on exposure to global bodies like the IETF and IRTF provides a highly respected distinction on CVs for both academic and industry career paths.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

• Able to follow the IETF in-time for those joining remotely, with suitable internet connections to be able to follow the sessions actively.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in dynamic online environments

• Passion for and commitment to The IO Foundation's mission and values
• Languages

• English fluent both oral and written
• Fluent level of local official languages is a plus.

• Strong networking skills and a proactive approach to building relationships within the tech community will be a plus.
• Strong understanding of data privacy and technology issues will be a plus.
• Proven experience in event participation, public speaking or advocacy will be a plus.

Responsibilities

• Actively participate in the following events and activities related to this Fellowship:

• Preparation Sessions (see Timeline)
• [IETF] IETF 126
• In-Time presence for New Participant Program (compulsory for new fellows, elective for recurring fellows) and Birds of a Feather (for both new and recurring fellows)
• Daily check-ins with the cohort, minimum 2 sessions per-day
• Active in quizzes and curveballs task

• Submit your Fellowship Report before the deadline (see Timeline).

• Provide regular reports on participation during the Fellowship, including insights, outcomes and recommendations for future engagements.
• Provide Recorded Testimony in the end of the Fellowship
• Collaborate with other TIOF Members to enhance the impact of our advocacy efforts.
• Act as a responsibly and in accordance to both TIOF's Code of Conduct and IETF LLC's Code of Conduct. Being a TIOF Fellow implies representing The IO Foundation and effectively communicating our mission, values and initiatives.

• Learn about how the Internet works at a practical, professional level directly from the global community that makes the Internet.
• Expand your career options.
• Fellowship mentoring, including Preparation Sessions and during sessions (See Timelineand IETF Agenda) Price: USD 2000 Ticket waived
• Free access to the event: [IETF] IETF 126 Price: USD 160 Ticket waived for students
• Networking:

  • Online Meet and greet with other fellows and VIPs from IETF/IRTF

• Blockchain based certificate of participation in TIOF Fellowship (check our Certificates.TheIOFoundation.org platform), will be given on:

  • Fully completion of conference session attendance
  • Completion on Daily Check Ins, Final Report, Feedbacks and actively enganga in the session
• Access to the The IO Foundation's TechUp Community where you'll be able to enhance your knowledge and career opportunities:

  • Access to exclusive training by TIOF
  • Priority for next Fellowship opportunities
  • Stay informed on current trends and developments in technology and data privacy to contribute to discussions and strategic planning.
  • Participate in monthly TechUp Community meetings.

Sponsors

Would you like to support technologists in their career towards protecting users?

Reach out!

Partners

Would you like to partner with us in our Fellowships?

Reach out!