The World Bank invites applications for the Visiting Scholars Program 2026, which supports early- and mid-career African researchers in advancing policy-relevant research on development issues. The programme offers scholars the opportunity to spend up to six months at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. Eligible applicants are nationals of sub-Saharan African countries who are affiliated with a university, research institution, or government agency in Africa. The program covers travel costs, provides a monthly stipend, and offers office space and research support. The application deadline is 09 September 2026. Africa Visiting Scholars Program
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UNESCO — Land Restoration Fellowships
The UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme invites applications for the AFRIMAB–GRO Land Restoration Fellowships 2027. The fellowship supports young African researchers undertaking innovative research on land restoration, ecosystem conservation, sustainable natural resource management, and biodiversity within or linked to UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in Africa. Eligible applicants are African nationals aged 40 or under who are enrolled in, or affiliated with, a recognized university or research institution. The application deadline is 10 September 2026. Land Restoration Fellowships
Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies — Sustainable Governance Research by Africa-Based Scholars
The Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS) invites applications for its Sustainable Governance Senior Fellowship Programme for Researchers from Africa. Fellows receive a full-time employment contract with the University of Freiburg, along with a research cost contribution and reimbursement of inbound and outbound travel. Applicants may hold any nationality but must be based at an institution in an African country. FRIAS considers applications only from the humanities and social sciences with a thematic focus on sustainable governance, which the institute defines broadly to include the environment, climate change, resources, social and human rights, and cost-efficiency. The deadline is 18 September 2026. Know more
African Plant Nutrition Institute — Outreach Fellowship for Soil Fertility Management in Africa
The African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) invites applications for its Outreach Fellowship. APNI offers awards of US$5,000 to African scientists, extension specialists, or educators running education, training, and communication programs that improve the use and efficiency of plant nutrients in African agro-ecosystems. Applicants must work at an African NARES institution, an African university, a nonprofit organization, or in the private sector. Proposals should address knowledge gaps or synthesize existing information to speed the adoption of improved soil fertility practices, and APNI gives particular attention to work aligned with its priority initiatives: 4R Nutrient Stewardship, nutrient and water management for African drylands, soil health and diagnostics, precision farming, and farmer-led on-farm innovation. The application deadline is 21 September 2026. Outreach Fellowship
Lantmännen Research Foundation — Funding for Agricultural Research
The Lantmännen Research Foundation invites research proposals that contribute to sustainable agriculture, food systems, bioenergy, and the bioeconomy. Eligible applicants are researchers affiliated with universities, research institutes, and other recognized research organizations, primarily in the Nordic region, although international collaborations are encouraged where relevant. The Foundation expects to award approximately SEK 25 million, with individual grant amounts depending on the scope and duration of each project. The application deadline is 30 September 2026. Know more
UK Department for International Development — Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2027
The UK Department for International Development (DFID) funds the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships for candidates from low- and middle-income Commonwealth countries, to undertake full-time study at a UK university. Scholarships are awarded annually across all subjects, with priority for applications that demonstrate strong relevance to development. The program does not accept direct applications for these scholarships, instead all applications must be made through nominating bodies (named in the announcement). Candidates must apply to one of the nominating bodies by 20 October 2026. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office — Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2027
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office makes Commonwealth PhD Scholarships for full-time doctoral studies to citizens from least developed countries and fragile states who could not afford to study in the UK without this scholarship. Scholarships are awarded annually across all subjects, with priority for applications that demonstrate strong relevance to development. The program does not accept direct applications for these scholarships. Instead, all applications must be made through nominating bodies (named in the announcement). Candidates must apply to one of the nominating bodies by 20 October 2026. Commonwealth PhD Scholarships
Earth Institute — Post-Doctoral Fellowships 2027
The Earth Institute at Columbia University invites applications for 2-year postdoctoral fellowships that contribute to understanding critical scientific and social issues in global sustainable development. Specific areas of research include food security, energy systems, climate change, poverty reduction, disease, and environmental degradation. The multi-disciplinary program is open to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens who received their doctoral degrees within five years of beginning their appointments. The deadline for applications is 30 October 2026. Post-Doctoral Fellowships
University of Oxford — Scholars Program for Africans
The Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) offers seven graduate scholarships for the 2027-28 MBA program at the University of Oxford. Scholarships are available for applicants who are African nationals, and who can demonstrate a commitment to Africa’s development. The scholarships cover course fees and a grant for living costs, as well as a tailor-made training program. The application deadline is 08 January 2027. AfOx Scholars Program
The Explorers Club — Impact Grants
The Explorers Club Impact Grants support individual researchers and explorers worldwide who conduct field-based scientific expeditions in disciplines such as ecology, earth sciences, anthropology, archaeology, paleontology, and astronomy—especially exploring regions experiencing environmental or cultural change. Grants typically range from US$10 thousand to US$25 thousand, covering expenses for on-site fieldwork. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Explorers Club Impact Grants