The Future Leaders Fellowship 2026 is a part-time, virtual fellowship program for graduate students across Africa, run by the Africa Clean Air Network and the Health Effects Institute. It provides early-career researchers with mentorship, a tailored research project, and a fellowship award of USD 1,800 plus travel support to attend the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027.
The Africa Clean Air Network (AfriCAN) and the Health Effects Institute (HEI) have partnered to offer this fellowship. AfriCAN is a network dedicated to improving air quality across Africa, while HEI is a nonprofit research organization that provides credible science on air pollution and health. Together, they aim to strengthen local research capacity and foster collaboration.
Fellowship Benefits
- Fellowship award of USD 1,800 paid directly to the candidate
- Travel support to attend the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027
- Mentorship from an academic or research institution in Africa
- Opportunity to work on a tailored research project
- Participation in professional development seminars
- Final outcomes shared via public webinar and potential publications
Future Leaders Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Must be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s or PhD) at a university/institution based in Africa
- Master’s applicants must have completed at least one full year of their program by the start of the fellowship (September 2026)
- Current interests must focus on air quality and health, air quality monitoring and modelling, or environmental and air quality policy and engagement
- Not open to postdoctoral researchers or faculty
- Must have access to a computer/laptop and be able to join frequent virtual meetings
How to Apply for Future Leaders Fellowship?
- Submit an application through the official SurveyMonkey form by June 12, 2026 at 11:59 GMT
- Indicate research opportunities of interest as part of the application
- Applications will be reviewed by the HEI and AfriCAN program committee based on quality, relevance, and research contributions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Future Leaders Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Future Leaders Fellowship?
The Future Leaders Fellowship is a part-time, virtual fellowship program for graduate students in Africa, run by the Africa Clean Air Network and the Health Effects Institute. It pairs fellows with mentors to work on a research project in air pollution.
Who can apply for the Future Leaders Fellowship?
Applicants must be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program at a university in Africa. Master’s students must have completed at least one full year by September 2026. Postdoctoral researchers and faculty are not eligible.
What are the benefits of the fellowship?
Fellows receive a USD 1,800 award, travel support to the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027, mentorship, professional development seminars, and the opportunity to publish research outcomes.
What is the deadline to apply?
Applications must be submitted by June 12, 2026 at 11:59 GMT.
How long is the fellowship program?
The program runs for 6 months, from September 1, 2026 to March 2027.
What research topics are available?
Topics include assessment of emissions inventories, air pollution and heat literature review, air quality monitoring mapping, long-term air quality trends, and public perception analysis using news and social media.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
No, it is partially funded. Fellows receive a USD 1,800 award and travel support, but it is not a full scholarship covering all expenses.
Can I apply if I am a postdoctoral researcher?
No, the fellowship is only open to graduate students (Master’s and PhD). Postdoctoral researchers and faculty are not eligible.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed by the HEI and AfriCAN program committee based on quality, relevance to the fellowship, and research contributions to environmental science.
Where do I submit my application?
Applications are submitted through the official SurveyMonkey form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7BCBMJZ.
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