Applications are now open for the 2026 African Research Universities Alliance Early Career Researcher Fellowship, a flagship programme designed to nurture the next generation of African research leaders. The fellowship supports emerging scholars to strengthen their research capacity, expand professional networks, and translate academic work into real-world impact across the continent.
About the Fellowship
The ARUA Early Career Researcher Fellowship brings together promising scholars from ARUA member universities into a vibrant pan-African learning and collaboration community. Through structured mentorship, training, and peer engagement, fellows develop the skills and confidence needed to produce high-quality, visible, and policy-relevant research. The programme places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, leadership development, and practical research skills that position fellows as future academic and research leaders.
Why It Matters
Africa’s development challenges require strong, locally grounded research leadership. This fellowship invests directly in early career researchers, helping them sharpen their research, publication, and grant-writing skills while building networks that last beyond the programme. By supporting scholars at a critical career stage, ARUA is strengthening the continent’s research ecosystem and amplifying African voices in global knowledge production.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will benefit from:
Targeted capacity-building workshops focused on research excellence and impact
One-on-one mentorship with senior and established researchers
Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across ARUA institutions Access to a strong pan-African peer network Enhanced visibility within the African and global research community Leadership and professional development support
Who Should Apply
The fellowship is ideal for early career scholars who:
Are passionate about research excellence and societal impact
Seek to strengthen their academic profile and leadership potential
Want to improve grant-writing, publication, and collaboration skills
Are committed to contributing to Africa’s research and development agenda
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Be an early career researcher affiliated with an ARUA member institution
Be actively engaged in research and demonstrate potential for research leadership
Meet the specific eligibility requirements outlined in the official call document
Information Webinar
An information webinar for prospective applicants will hold on 16 January 2026. The session will provide an overview of the fellowship, guidance on the application process, and answers to questions from
