Applications are open for the 2026–2027 Early Childhood Development in Crisis (ECDiC) Research Fellowship, an initiative designed to support researchers working in low- and middle-income countries who are generating knowledge about young children living in emergency contexts.

The fellowship is organized by Moving Minds Alliance and aims to strengthen research focused on children aged 0–8 and their caregivers who are affected by crises such as conflict, displacement, climate disasters, or humanitarian emergencies.

Through this program, selected fellows will conduct locally relevant research over a 12-month period, contributing valuable evidence that can inform policies, programs, and advocacy efforts to improve early childhood development services in crisis-affected communities.

The fellowship particularly welcomes proposals examining policy development, systems change, and programmatic interventions related to early childhood development in emergency situations. However, research exploring other aspects of ECD within crisis or displacement settings is also encouraged.

Successful fellows will join a global network of researchers and practitioners working to advance knowledge in early childhood development in emergencies, while also receiving mentoring, opportunities for knowledge exchange, and support to disseminate their research findings internationally.

Research Focus Areas

The fellowship seeks research projects addressing key gaps in knowledge related to Early Childhood Development in Crisis and Displacement, including but not limited to:

• Policy and advocacy related to ECD in humanitarian contexts

• Child-friendly policies addressing climate-related disasters

• Programmatic approaches supporting children and caregivers affected by crisis or displacement

• Post-disaster recovery strategies that strengthen early childhood development systems

• Mental health, nutrition, early learning, and caregiver support for young children in emergencies

Research may involve primary data collection (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) or analysis of existing datasets that provide new insights into early childhood development in crisis-affected contexts.

While the fellowship is open globally, the current cohort will prioritize applicants from the Arab region, Asia-Pacific, and South America, though researchers from Africa are also strongly encouraged to apply.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is application deadline March 31,2026.