African Peacebuilding Research Fellowships Open for 2026 Applications

The Social Science Research Council is now accepting applications for its 2026 Individual Research Fellowships. The program supports African researchers and practitioners working on conflict and peacebuilding. The application deadline is January 16, 2025

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This initiative aims to enhance the quality of African-led peacebuilding research. It seeks to make this knowledge accessible to global policymakers and local communities. The program has been running since 2012.

Fellowship Structure and Financial Support

The fellowship spans a total of nine months. It includes six months of field research and three months for analysis and writing. The program runs from July 2026 to March 2027.

Fellows will participate in two mandatory workshops in Africa. These events help refine research designs and foster professional networks. They also provide opportunities for collaboration with senior academics.

Up to nine fellowships will be awarded for the 2026 cycle. Each grant offers a maximum of $12,000 in financial support. This funding enables extensive field-based research.

Eligibility Requirements and Application Process

Applicants must be African citizens currently residing on the continent. The competition is open to academics, policy analysts, and practitioners. All must demonstrate a strong commitment to peacebuilding work.

Academic applicants need a full-time position at an African institution. They must have earned their PhD after January 2016. Practitioner applicants require a master’s degree and at least five years of relevant experience.

The application process involves a detailed research proposal and supporting documents. Required materials include a current CV, proposed budget, and two reference letters. The SSRC reviews all submissions thoroughly.

The African Peacebuilding Research Fellowships represent a significant investment in local expertise. This program empowers African scholars to shape global peacebuilding conversations. Successful applicants will contribute vital knowledge to this critical field.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is eligible for the APDD fellowship?

The fellowship is open to African citizens living in Africa. Academics need a PhD earned after January 2016. Practitioners require a master’s degree and five years of experience.

What is the duration of the research fellowship?

The fellowship lasts for nine months total. It includes six months of field research. The final three months are for analysis and writing.

How much funding does the fellowship provide?

Each fellowship offers up to $12,000 in support. The program will award up to nine fellowships. This funding enables comprehensive field research.

What are the key components of the program?

Fellows conduct independent research and attend workshops. They contribute to publications and digital forums. The program also provides professional mentorship.

When is the application deadline?

All applications must be submitted by January 16, 2025. The selection process occurs throughout 2025. The fellowship itself begins in July 2026.