Future Leaders Fellowship 2026

The Africa Clean Air Network and Health Effects Institute are pleased to announce the Future Leaders Fellowship 2026.

This fellowship aims to equip early-career researchers with practical research experience, mentorship, and professional networks that will help shape impactful careers in air quality and environmental science across Africa. This fellowship program is made possible through the generous support of the KRNmosaic Charitable Foundation, whose mission is to improve global health and education.

About the Fellowship

The six-month, part-time, virtual fellowship program will pair selected fellows with mentors based at academic or research institutions to collaborate on a specific research project. 

The fellowship is designed for early-career researchers looking to deepen their expertise, strengthen their research skills, and expand professional networks in the field of air quality. Selected fellows will be matched with volunteer mentors, as described further in the application form. 

Selected fellows will:

• Lead a tailored research project alongside experienced mentors based at academic and research institutions
• Present their research through a deliverable (e.g., peer-reviewed publication, blog, policy brief) and/or public webinar event

Selected fellows will receive a fellowship award of USD 1,800, paid directly to the fellow, and travel support to attend the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program at a university/institution in Africa
• Master’s applicants must have completed at least one year of study by the fellowship start date
• Have current interests or ongoing research in the field of environmental science and air pollution
• Have access to a computer/laptop and the ability to join virtual meetings

Please note that this opportunity is not open to postdoctoral researchers or faculty members.

Key Dates

• Applications open: May 18, 2026
• Applications close: June 12, 2026, 11:59 PM GMT

Apply here.