Understanding the EDGE Fellowship: A Guide for Early-Career Conservationists

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) has opened applications for the 2027-2029 EDGE Fellowship, a program designed to support early-career conservationists working to protect Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species. This fellowship offers training, funding, and ongoing support to help conservation leaders implement impactful, locally driven projects. The application process for 2027 is structured in two stages, starting with an Expression of Interest (EOI).

What is the EDGE Fellowship?

The EDGE Fellowship is a 28-month program focused on leadership and conservation training. It aims to strengthen conservation efforts in areas with high biodiversity. The program supports early-career conservationists who are dedicated to protecting species that are both unique in their evolutionary history and globally threatened. These species often do not receive much attention despite their importance.

Starting in 2027, each group of fellows will include at least 14 individuals from countries outside the G12, the European Union, New Zealand, and South Korea. This ensures that conservation leadership is developed in regions 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 with communities, communicating scientific findings, managing budgets, and creating long-term conservation strategies. They also become part of a global network of conservation professionals.

Eligibility for Species

To apply for the EDGE Fellowship, candidates 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 starting the Expression of Interest form. The species are categorized into four priority levels:

1. Higher Priority: These species will receive the most consideration.
2. Medium Priority: Applicants focusing on these species are still encouraged to apply.
3. Lower Priority: Similar to medium priority, these species are also eligible.
4. Ineligible: Species in this category cannot be proposed for the 2027 Fellowship.

Applicants must clearly explain the conservation importance and local relevance of their proposed work, especially if they are focusing on medium or lower priority species. Species that have been reclassified as Near Threatened (NT) or Least Concern (LC) in the 2026.1 Red List will not be eligible.

Who Should Apply?

The EDGE Fellowship is looking for early-career conservationists who meet specific criteria. Applicants should be committed to leading conservation actions for an eligible EDGE species. They should also 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.

Ideal candidates can show the local need and urgency for their proposed conservation work. They must also be ready to fully participate in the training, mentorship, and peer-learning activities offered by the fellowship. Ultimately, the program seeks individuals eager to join a global network of conservation leaders dedicated to protecting unique and threatened species.

What the Fellowship Provides

Each EDGE Fellow receives a complete support package for the 28-month program. This includes six weeks of in-person training designed to build essential conservation skills. Fellows will also receive support to develop a detailed and practical conservation project plan.

A project implementation grant of GBP 15,000 is provided to help fund the proposed work. Additionally, fellows benefit from ongoing mentorship and professional development opportunities. They gain access to a worldwide network of conservation experts and fellow practitioners. This combination of financial support, training, and long-term guidance ensures that fellows are well-equipped to achieve significant and lasting conservation results.

Application Process and Timeline

The application process for the 2027-2029 EDGE Fellowship is structured to allow candidates to clearly present their conservation ideas. The first step is submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI). Candidates who are shortlisted after the EOI stage will be invited to submit a full application.

Here is the timeline for the 2027-2029 EDGE Fellowship:

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the EDGE Fellowship?

The EDGE Fellowship is a 28-month program by ZSL that provides training, funding, and support to early-career conservationists focused on protecting unique and threatened species.

Who is eligible to apply for the EDGE Fellowship?

Early-career conservationists who are nationals or long-term residents of the project country and propose projects for species on the 2026 EDGE Species List are eligible.

What kind of species can be proposed for the fellowship?

You must propose a species from the 2026 EDGE Species List that is not classified as Near Threatened or Least Concern. Higher priority species receive more consideration.

What are the key dates for the 2027 EDGE Fellowship application?

The Expression of Interest (EOI) opens on May 13, 2026, and closes on June 10, 2026. The full application deadline is August 12, 2026.