Understanding the 2027-2029 EDGE Fellowship for Conservation Leaders

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is offering a significant opportunity for early-career conservationists through its 2027-2029 EDGE Fellowship. This program is designed to empower individuals dedicated to protecting species that are both evolutionarily distinct and globally endangered. The fellowship provides essential training, funding, and ongoing support to help these leaders implement impactful, locally driven conservation projects.

The application process for the 2027 cohort is structured in two stages, starting with an Expression of Interest (EOI). This method allows applicants to clearly present their conservation goals and demonstrate the local importance and urgency of their proposed work. The EDGE Fellowship is recognized globally for its role in building capacity for conservation efforts in biodiversity-rich regions.

What is the EDGE Fellowship?

The EDGE Fellowship is a 28-month program focused on leadership and conservation training. It aims to strengthen conservation actions in areas with high biodiversity. The program specifically supports early-career conservationists who are committed to protecting species that are unique in their evolutionary history and are also facing global threats. These species often receive less attention despite their critical ecological roles.

Starting in 2027, each group of fellows will include at least 14 individuals from countries outside of the G12, the European Union, New Zealand, and South Korea. This selection ensures that conservation leadership is developed in areas where it is most needed and where biodiversity loss is most severe. The fellowship is more than just training; it’s a journey to develop leadership skills. Fellows gain practical experience in designing projects, engaging communities, communicating scientific findings, managing budgets, and creating long-term conservation strategies. They also become part of a worldwide network of conservation professionals working to protect overlooked and extraordinary species.

Eligibility for Species and Applicants

To be considered for the EDGE Fellowship, applicants must propose a project that focuses on a species listed in the 2026 EDGE Species List. It is important to download and review this list before completing the Expression of Interest form. The species on this list are categorized into four priority levels: Higher Priority, Medium Priority, Lower Priority, and Ineligible.

While species in the Higher Priority category will receive the most attention, applicants focusing on Medium or Lower Priority species are still encouraged to apply. They must, however, clearly explain the conservation importance and local relevance of their proposed work. Species marked as Ineligible will not appear on the EOI form and cannot be proposed for the 2027 Fellowship. It is also noted that species downlisted to Near Threatened (NT) or Least Concern (LC) in the 2026.1 Red List will not be eligible.

The EDGE Fellowship is looking for early-career conservationists who meet specific criteria. Applicants should be committed to leading conservation efforts for an eligible EDGE species. They must be nationals or long-term residents of the country where the project will be carried out and have strong connections to the specific region or landscape of their proposed work. Conservationists should be able to show the local need and urgency for their project. Additionally, applicants must be ready to fully participate in training, mentorship, and peer-learning activities. The program is ideal for individuals who wish to join a global network of conservation leaders focused on protecting unique and threatened species.

What the Fellowship Provides

Each EDGE Fellow receives a complete support package throughout the 28-month program. This includes six weeks of in-person training designed to build essential skills. Fellows will receive support to develop a detailed and practical conservation project plan. A project implementation grant of GBP 15,000 is provided to help fund these initiatives.

Beyond the initial funding and training, the fellowship offers ongoing mentorship and professional development opportunities. Fellows gain access to a global network of conservation experts and peers, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. This combination of financial support, skill-building, and continuous guidance ensures that Fellows are well-equipped to achieve meaningful and lasting conservation results for endangered species.

Application Process and Timeline

The application process for the 2027-2029 EDGE Fellowship is structured to ensure a thorough review of candidates. The process begins with an Expression of Interest (EOI), which must be submitted by a specific deadline.

The timeline for the 2027 EDGE Fellowship is as follows:

• Expression of Interest opens: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
• Expression of Interest deadline: Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 17:00 BST
• Shortlisted applicants invited to submit full application: Wednesday, July 8, 2026
• Full application deadline: Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 17:00 BST
• Interviews and final selection: September 14 to October 1, 2026
• Shortlisted applicants notified of outcome: Week commencing October 12, 2026
• 2027 EDGE Fellowship period: January 2027 to May 2029

To apply, candidates must first download and carefully review the 2026 EDGE Species List. They should then prepare their Expression of Interest, ensuring it clearly focuses on an eligible species. Finally, the EOI must be submitted through the official online form before the stated deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions