Are you passionate about sustainability and uncovering hidden issues in our world? The Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026 at Utrecht University offers a chance for changemakers to dive into these topics. This program focuses on the circular economy and invites people from all walks of life to share bold ideas for a better future.
About the Fellowship
The Critical Pathways Fellowship comes from the Critical Pathways community at Utrecht University. It works with the Towards a Circular Economy and Society group. The program runs as a collaborative space for thinkers, artists, and activists. It looks at how social, cultural, and ecological values connect. Fellows study global inequalities and power dynamics that affect resource use.
This fellowship stands out because it skips strict academic rules. You do not need a PhD or university ties. All it asks for is curiosity, creativity, and a drive to question old ways and dream up new ones.
Who Can Apply
The program welcomes a broad group of people who challenge the norm. You might fit if you are:
- An artist, filmmaker, or writer
- An activist, organizer, or community leader
- A journalist, lawyer, or policy advocate
- A conservationist, sustainability expert, or entrepreneur
- An academic from any field
If your work uncovers truths, boosts ignored voices, or suggests fresh sustainable living, apply now.
What Fellows Will Do
Fellows follow a flexible schedule they shape themselves. Key parts include exploring big questions, sharing work in creative ways, and building connections.
Explore Critical Questions
Dive into topics that reveal problems in current systems. Think about untold stories for sustainable futures, communities hit hard by global setups, and power structures that keep inequality and harm alive.
Share Work Creatively
Present ideas in your best style. Options include workshops, performances, film screenings, public talks, or mixed formats. The aim is to start talks, spark thoughts, and team up with others.
Build Connections
Meet researchers, practitioners, and partners. The program helps with intros, but you lead in forming ties that help your work and the group.
2026 Theme: Making Visible the Invisible
This year spotlights forces we often miss. Look at hidden infrastructures, unseen labor, and deep inequalities. Key areas include:
- Costs of modern life like digital tech, fast fashion, and mining
- Groups and nature paying the price of supply chains
- Who gains from the system and why it sticks
- New paths to fair, rebuilding models over taking ones
Go past pointing out flaws. Test fresh thoughts, actions, and lives to widen sustainability ideas.
Fellowship Details
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Timing: October to November 2026 (dates can flex)
- Duration: 4 to 6 weeks
What It Covers
Get up to €10,000 for travel, housing, daily costs, and visas. Plus access to offices, meeting rooms, the university library, and tech tools. Join the full Critical Pathways and circular economy networks.
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Fill out the official application form. Download it as a .docx file.
- Add your CV.
- Email both to Tom Gerritsen at [email protected].
Deadline is 27 April 2026.
Selection Process
A panel from both groups reviews entries. They check fit with themes, fresh views, and value you bring. Hear back in six weeks after the deadline.
This fellowship gives more than money. It creates room to question, dream, and build fixes for our changing world. Diverse views help shift stories toward justice and green living. If you make the unseen clear, step up and apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the Critical Pathways Fellowship 2026?
Anyone passionate about sustainability can apply, including artists, activists, journalists, conservationists, and academics from any field—no PhD or university affiliation required.
What is the duration and location of the fellowship?
It runs for 4 to 6 weeks from October to November 2026 in Utrecht, Netherlands, with flexible dates.
What does the fellowship cover financially?
Fellows receive up to €10,000 for travel, housing, daily costs, and visas, plus access to offices, libraries, and networks.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Download the application form, add your CV, and email both to [email protected] by the April 27, 2026 deadline.
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