Deadline: September 15, 2025
The MIASA Individual Residential Fellowship 2026-2027 is now open for applications! Hosted by the Merian Institute for Advanced Studies in Africa (MIASA) at the University of Ghana, this prestigious research opportunity is designed to support scholars in the Humanities and Social Sciences whose projects align with MIASA’s thematic focus on sustainable governance. The fellowship offers full funding, research support, and residence on the vibrant Legon campus in Accra.
This is an excellent opportunity for both early-career and senior researchers seeking to immerse themselves in a stimulating academic environment while contributing to pressing global challenges from an African perspective.
About MIASA
Established in 2018, the Merian Institute for Advanced Studies in Africa (MIASA) is a collaborative research centre located at the University of Ghana, Legon. It is supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research and operated in partnership with leading German academic institutions. MIASA’s central theme is “sustainable governance”, with sub-themes including sustainable peace, democracy, climate change, land ownership, urbanisation, migration, and human rights.
The Institute fosters intellectual exchange between African and international researchers, promoting transdisciplinary and comparative work within and beyond the African continent.
Fellowship Duration and Location
The MIASA Individual Residential Fellowship 2026-2027 offers residencies of 3 to 6 months during the academic year, from September 2026 to August 2027. Fellows are required to live and work full-time at the University of Ghana’s Legon campus in Accra, benefiting from access to MIASA’s facilities, the university library, and a supportive scholarly community.
Short-term research travel or fieldwork (up to 1/6 of the fellowship duration) is permitted with prior approval.
Fellowship Benefits
Fellows of the MIASA Individual Residential Fellowship 2026-2027 will receive comprehensive support, including:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Stipend / Salary | Fellows with institutional affiliation may have their salary covered (up to €6,925/month) or receive a stipend; unaffiliated researchers receive a fixed monthly grant. |
| Accommodation Allowance | Fellows residing outside Accra may receive up to €1,500/month for accommodation. |
| Family Support | Family relocation allowance is available for fellows moving with dependents. |
| Travel Reimbursement | Round-trip airfare to and from Accra is covered. |
| Research Support | Monthly research allowance of €250; extra support may be available for extended stays and conference participation. |
| Facilities | Personal office space, internet access, seminar participation, and access to both University of Ghana and Freiburg libraries. |
Who Can Apply?
The MIASA Individual Residential Fellowship 2026–2027 is open to:
- Scholars from any country, especially from the Global South.
- Researchers with a PhD awarded at least 3 months before the start of the fellowship.
- Applicants from the Humanities and Social Sciences, with a strong preference for projects relevant to MIASA’s core themes.
Early-career researchers and senior academics are both encouraged to apply.
Application Requirements
Applications may be submitted in English or French and must include:
- A completed application form (available via the MIASA application portal).
- A cover/front page summarising personal data and project title.
- A research proposal (max 5 pages, plus bibliography) outlining objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- A two-page CV highlighting academic experience.
- A two-page list of publications.
Formatting Guidelines:
- Font: Arial, 11 pt
- Spacing: 1.5
- Margins: 2.5 cm
Application Deadline
All applications for the MIASA Individual Residential Fellowship 2026-2027 must be submitted by 15 September 2025. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Why You Should Apply
The MIASA Individual Residential Fellowship 2026-2027 presents a rare opportunity for scholars to engage in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research in Africa. With a generous funding package, world-class facilities, and a diverse academic community, fellows can advance their work while contributing to critical global conversations on governance, equity, and sustainability.
Need help with your application?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining and review.
