Applications are now open for the 2026 Future Leaders Fellowship, a virtual research and mentorship programme supporting emerging African researchers working in air quality, environmental science, and public health.

The fellowship is organized by the Africa Clean Air Network in partnership with the Health Effects Institute.

Designed for early-career researchers, the programme provides practical research experience, mentorship from leading experts, professional development opportunities, and regional networking in the field of environmental and air pollution research.

About the Fellowship

The programme will run for six months from September 2026 to March 2027 and will be delivered virtually on a part-time basis.

Selected fellows will work closely with experienced mentors from academic and research institutions on specialized research projects related to air pollution and environmental health across Africa.

Research areas include:

• Air quality monitoring and modelling
• Environmental and public health research
• Air pollution policy and engagement
• Climate and environmental science
• Urban air quality trends in African cities
• Emissions inventories and pollution assessment
• Public perception and communication on air pollution

The programme is not open to postdoctoral researchers or university faculty members.

Fellowship Structure

Participants will collaborate with mentors and partner institutions on practical research projects while strengthening technical and professional skills through mentorship and virtual learning activities.

Fellows will also contribute to final outputs such as:

• Research publications
• Policy briefs
• Public presentations
• Environmental communication materials

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Future Leaders Fellowship seeks to support the next generation of African environmental researchers by strengthening local expertise, building regional collaboration, and advancing solutions to air pollution and environmental health challenges across the continent.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 12 June 2026 at 11:59 PM GMT.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply now.