Future Leaders Fellowship 2026: A Transformative Opportunity for Africa’s Emerging Air Quality Researchers
The Future Leaders Fellowship 2026 is a significant program for graduate students in Africa who are passionate about air quality and environmental health. This six-month, part-time, virtual fellowship offers a unique chance to gain hands-on research experience, work with leading scientists, and contribute to important work in air pollution, environmental health, air quality monitoring, modeling, and policy engagement. Organized by the Africa Clean Air Network (AfriCAN) and the Health Effects Institute (HEI), the fellowship aims to build the capacity of the next generation of researchers on the continent.
Program Overview
The fellowship provides a structured, mentorship-driven research experience. Selected fellows will be paired with expert mentors from top academic and research institutions. Each fellow will work on a tailored research project, gaining practical skills and professional exposure. The program includes one-on-one mentorship, professional development seminars, collaboration with the Africa Clean Air Network Secretariat, and engagement with a wider network of experts. Fellows will present their final research outcomes in a public webinar and have opportunities to produce peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs, or blogs. Participants need a computer and must be available for regular virtual meetings.
Fellowship Benefits
The Future Leaders Fellowship offers substantial support to help fellows focus on their research. Each fellow will receive a USD 1,800 award, paid directly to them. Additionally, travel support is provided to attend the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027. Fellows gain access to a continental network of researchers, policymakers, and environmental advocates. The program also focuses on skill-building through seminars, mentorship, and collaborative research, offering visibility through public presentations and potential publications.
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.
Assessment of Available Emissions Inventories
This research theme focuses on evaluating the existing emissions inventories for major air pollution sources across Africa. Dr. Evelyne Toure from Université Félix Houphouët Boigny in Côte d’Ivoire serves as the mentor for this project.
Rapid Review of Peer-Reviewed Literature on Air Pollution and Heat in Africa
This project involves conducting a quick review of published research on the combined impacts of air pollution and heat in African regions. Dr. Adelaide Lusambili from NextGen for Earth in Kenya will mentor this research.
Mapping and Assessment of Air Quality Monitoring Across Africa
This theme centers on mapping and evaluating the current state of air quality monitoring systems throughout Africa. Mentors for this research are Dr. Deo Okure from AirQo in Uganda and Dr. Allison Hughes from Afri-SET in Ghana.
Assessment of Long-Term Air Quality Trends in African Cities
This research opportunity involves analyzing long-term changes in air quality within African cities. Dr. Pallavi Pant from the Health Effects Institute in the USA will guide fellows in this area.
Analysis of Public Perception of Air Pollution in Africa Using News and Social Media
This project aims to understand how the public perceives air pollution in Africa by analyzing content from news outlets and social media platforms. Dr. Melina Platas from New York University, Abu Dhabi, is the mentor for this theme.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Future Leaders Fellowship, applicants must meet specific requirements. They must be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program at an institution located in Africa. Master’s students need to have completed at least one full year of their studies by September 2026. Applicants’ research interests should align with one of the fellowship’s listed topics. It is important to note that postdoctoral researchers and faculty members are not eligible for this fellowship. A strong interest in air quality, environmental health, or related fields is also a key requirement.
Evaluation Process
The application review will be conducted by a program committee from the Health Effects Institute (HEI) and the Africa Clean Air Network (AfriCAN). The selection process will consider the quality and clarity of each application, how well the fellowship aligns with the applicant’s academic and research goals, and the potential contribution the applicant can make to environmental science and air quality research in Africa.
Key Dates
The application period for the Future Leaders Fellowship 2026 is clearly defined. Applications opened on May 18, 2026, and will close on June 12, 2026, at 11:59 GMT. The review of applications is scheduled for July 2026, with the selection of fellows expected in August 2026. The program itself will begin on September 1, 2026, and conclude in March 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Future Leaders Fellowship 2026?
It’s a six-month, part-time virtual program for African graduate students to gain research experience in air quality and environmental health.
Who organizes the fellowship?
The fellowship is organized by the Africa Clean Air Network (AfriCAN) and the Health Effects Institute (HEI).
What are the benefits of participating?
Benefits include a USD 1,800 award, travel support to the Africa Clean Air Forum 2027, mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities.
Who is eligible to apply?
Master’s or PhD students in Africa who have completed at least one year of study (for Master’s) and have research interests aligned with the fellowship topics are eligible. Postdocs and faculty are not.
