Deadline: March 25, 2026
The Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026 invites outstanding African researchers to apply for a fully funded opportunity to conduct independent, policy-relevant research on Africa’s key political, economic, and social transformations. This prestigious programme offers fellows the chance to work with leading German research institutes, engage in collaborative research, and contribute to shaping international policy discussions about Africa’s future.
About the Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026
The Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026 is part of the wider Megatrends Afrika project, a joint initiative by three renowned German institutes: the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP), the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS), and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy.
The fellowship provides African researchers the platform to undertake innovative research projects addressing pressing issues on the continent — from democracy and peacebuilding to economic development and global positioning.
Fellowship Details
- Host Institutions: SWP (Berlin), IDOS (Bonn), or IfW (Kiel)
- Fellowship Duration: 3 months (Autumn 2026)
- Application Deadline: 25 March 2026 (11:59 p.m. CET)
Successful fellows will collaborate with the Megatrends Afrika team and produce a Megatrends Policy Brief, contributing to high-level discussions on Africa’s megatrends.
Areas of Research
Applicants are encouraged to submit research proposals addressing one or more of the following themes:
- Peace and Security
- The Future of Democracy
- Economic Prospects
- Africa’s Role in the New World Order
- Science Diplomacy and Science Cooperation
Cross-cutting topics such as artificial intelligence, digitalisation, urbanisation, and energy transition cooperation are also welcomed.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens or permanent residents of an African country
- Hold a completed PhD in political science, economics, social sciences, geography, international relations, or related disciplines
- Have a strong research and publication record relevant to the fellowship’s focus areas
- Demonstrate the ability to produce high-quality, policy-relevant research
- Prior experience in policy advisory work is desirable but not mandatory
Fellowship Benefits
The Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026 offers generous financial and logistical support to ensure fellows can focus fully on their research:
- Monthly stipend: €2,800
- Economy-class return flight from the fellow’s country of residence to Germany
- Coverage for local transportation, mobile credit, and incidental costs
- Visa assistance for those requiring entry permits
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit all materials as a single PDF document via email to megatrends-afrika@swp-berlin.org.
The application package should include:
- A letter of motivation explaining interest in the fellowship
- A curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications
- A concept note (maximum 2,000 words) outlining the proposed research topic, its policy relevance, and expected outcomes
- Sample publications and academic transcripts
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- The academic quality and originality of the proposed project
- Relevance to the themes of the Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026
- Potential policy impact and feasibility within the 3-month timeframe
- Demonstrated research experience and publication record
Successful candidates will be notified and matched to one of the partner institutions in Berlin, Bonn, or Kiel according to their research focus.
Fellowship Timeline
- Application Deadline: 25 March 2026
- Selection Announcement: Mid-2026
- Fellowship Period: Autumn 2026 (three months in Germany)
Final Note
The Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026 offers African scholars an unparalleled opportunity to engage in high-impact research, collaborate with leading European think tanks, and influence policy discussions on Africa’s trajectory in a changing world.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
