Future Leaders Fellowship 2026: A Transformative Opportunity for Africa’s Emerging Air Quality Researchers

The Future Leaders Fellowship 2026 is a significant opportunity for graduate students in Africa focused on air quality and environmental health. This program, a collaboration between the Africa Clean Air Network (AfriCAN) and the Health Effects Institute (HEI), aims to nurture the next generation of researchers. Over six months, from September 2026 to March 2027, fellows will gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and contribute to vital research. The fellowship is designed to be part-time and virtual, making it accessible to students across the continent.

Program Overview

This fellowship offers a structured, mentorship-driven research experience. Selected participants will be paired with experienced mentors from leading academic and research institutions. Each fellow will work on a personalized research project, allowing them to gain practical skills and professional exposure in their chosen field. The program emphasizes collaboration and aims to build a strong network of environmental and public health experts.

Key components of the program include:

• One-on-one mentorship: Fellows receive guidance from established researchers in the field.
• Professional development seminars: Opportunities to attend workshops and learn new skills.
• Collaboration: Working with the Africa Clean Air Network Secretariat and other experts.
• Networking: Connecting with a broad community of environmental and public health professionals.
• Research presentation: Presenting final research findings during a public webinar.
• Publication potential: Opportunities to contribute to peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs, or blogs.

To participate, fellows must have access to a computer and be available for regular virtual meetings throughout the program.

Fellowship Benefits

The Future Leaders Fellowship provides substantial support to ensure fellows can fully dedicate themselves to their research. This support includes financial assistance, travel opportunities, and access to a valuable network. The program is designed to foster growth and contribute to the fellows’ academic and professional development.

The benefits offered to fellows are:

• Financial Award: A USD 1,800 fellowship award, paid directly to each fellow.
• Travel Support: Funding to attend the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to a continental network of researchers, policymakers, and environmental advocates.
• Skill Development: Learning through seminars, mentorship, and collaborative research projects.
• Visibility: Opportunities to present work publicly and potentially get published.

Mentor-Led Research Opportunities

Applicants can choose from several research themes, each guided by a distinguished mentor. These themes cover critical areas of air quality research relevant to Africa. Exploring these themes allows applicants to align their interests with the program’s focus.

The available research themes are:

1. Assessment of available emissions inventories for key air pollution sources in Africa: This project focuses on understanding the sources of air pollution across the continent. The mentor for this theme is Dr. Evelyne Toure from Université Félix Houphouët Boigny, Côte d’Ivoire.
2. Rapid review of peer-reviewed literature on air pollution and heat in Africa: This research will synthesize existing knowledge on the combined impacts of air pollution and heat. Dr. Adelaide Lusambili of NextGen for Earth, Kenya, will serve as the mentor.
3. Mapping and assessment of air quality monitoring across Africa: This theme involves evaluating current air quality monitoring systems in African cities. Mentors include Dr. Deo Okure from AirQo, Uganda, and Dr. Allison Hughes from Afri-SET, Ghana.
4. Assessment of long-term air quality trends in African cities: This research aims to identify patterns and changes in air quality over time in urban areas. Dr. Pallavi Pant from the Health Effects Institute, USA, is the mentor.
5. Analysis of public perception of air pollution in Africa using news and social media: This project will explore how the public perceives air pollution issues through media analysis. Dr. Melina Platas from New York University, Abu Dhabi, will mentor this theme.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Future Leaders Fellowship, applicants must meet specific requirements. These criteria ensure that the program attracts dedicated graduate students with a strong interest in air quality and environmental health. Meeting these qualifications is essential for a successful application.

The eligibility requirements are:

• Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program at an institution based in Africa.
• Academic Standing: Master’s students must have completed at least one full year of study by September 2026.
• Research Alignment: Research interests must match one of the listed fellowship topics.
• Exclusion: Applicants must not be postdoctoral researchers or faculty members.
• Interest: Must demonstrate a strong interest in air quality, environmental health, or related fields.

Evaluation Process

The application review process is managed by the HEI and AfriCAN program committee. They will assess applications based on several key factors to select the most promising candidates. The selection aims to identify individuals who will benefit most from the fellowship and contribute meaningfully to air quality research.

The evaluation will be based on:

• Application Quality: The clarity and overall quality of the submitted application.
• Relevance: How well the fellowship aligns with the applicant’s academic and research goals.
• Potential Contribution: The applicant’s potential to contribute to environmental science and air quality research in Africa.

Key Dates

Prospective applicants should note the important dates for the Future Leaders Fellowship 2026. These deadlines are crucial for submitting applications and staying informed about the selection timeline.

• Applications open: May 18, 2026
• Applications close: June 12, 2026 at 11:59 GMT
• Review of applications: July 2026
• Selection of fellows: August 2026
• Program start date: September 1, 2026
• Program end date: March 2027

Frequently Asked Questions