ARUA Early-career Research Fellowships 2026 (Cohort 2)

The ARUA Early-career Research Fellowships 2026 (Cohort 2) supports up to 42 early-career researchers to conduct research at ARUA’s Centres of Excellence and Africa-Europe Clusters of Excellence.

What it offers

• Up to 42 fellowships for early-career researchers.
• Each fellowship lasts six months, with two possible start dates:
  • March–August 2026 (application deadline: 22 January 2026)
  • September 2026–February 2027 (application deadline: 15 July 2026)

Who can apply

• African nationals with a PhD in a discipline related to the thematic area of an ARUA Centre of Excellence or Africa-Europe Cluster of Excellence.
• Applicants must be no older than 35 years at the time of application.
• At least 70% of fellowships are reserved for female candidates.

What you'll do

• Conduct research at a host or affiliated ARUA institution.
• Work with mentors and other researchers on relevant studies.
• Publish at least one academic paper (lead/first author preferred) in a high-impact journal (Scopus or Web of Science indexed), with an accompanying policy brief or blog post.
• Deliver at least two presentations and participate in technical workshops.
• Assist in creating partnerships and disseminating research findings.

How to apply

• Visit the ARUA website and those of relevant Centres of Excellence or Clusters of Excellence to review ongoing research projects.
• Submit an application for either the March–August 2026 or September 2026–February 2027 cohort by the respective deadline (22 January 2026 or 15 July 2026).