AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship 2027

The AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship (VFP) 2027 supports African PhD students researching Innovation and Development (I&D). This programme combines online pre- and post-activities with a 3-month study period at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in South Africa, offering mentorship from scholars in the AfricaLics and Globelics networks. The fellowship aims to enhance research capabilities, improve dissertation quality, and prepare students for careers in academia, industry, or policymaking. The 2027 cohort kicks off with online activities in early February 2027, followed by a study visit from 6 September to 3 December 2027, concluding with further online engagement in late 2027 and early 2028. Alumni continue to benefit from networking opportunities through AfricaLics events and research conferences.

What it offers

• Fellowship support for PhD students focusing on innovation and sustainable development, with mentorship from AfricaLics and Globelics scholars.
• 3-month study period at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in South Africa, including access to the Trilateral Research Chair in Transformative Innovation.
• Online pre- and post-programme activities, including networking with AfricaLics alumni and research conferences.
• Career development opportunities in academia, private sector, or policymaking.
• Focus on four Research Coordination Areas (RCAs):
  • STI Measurement in Africa
  • Global Value Chains (GVCs), Innovation, and Industrialization
  • Innovating Resilience: Inclusive Agricultural Innovation for Climate Resilience
  • (Partial excerpt; full RCAs available on AfricaLics website).

Who can apply

The fellowship is open to African PhD students from OECD/DAC low- and lower-middle-income countries, with research on innovation and sustainable development. Preference is given to female applicants and those from low-income countries. Applicants must be enrolled at an African university, preferably having completed their first year by December 2026, and must already secure basic PhD funding from other sources (e.g., governments, organizations).