For researchers committed to reducing poverty through rigorous evidence, the J-PAL MENA Scholars Fellowship 2026 offers a structured pathway into randomized impact evaluation. Designed for early-career scholars connected to the MENA region, this two-year fellowship combines mentorship, training, networking, and financial support.
If you are building a career in applied microeconomics, development policy, or social impact research, this program can significantly strengthen your research portfolio.
Quick Facts
- Host Region: Middle East & North Africa (MENA)
- Fellowship Type: Two-Year Research & Training Fellowship
- Funding Type: USD $15,000 Stipend
- Eligible Applicants: MENA-based PhD students and academic scholars
- Deadline: March 26, 2026
About the Opportunity
The J-PAL MENA Scholars Fellowship 2026 is an initiative of Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), specifically through its Middle East and North Africa office (J-PAL MENA). The fellowship is supported by Community Jameel and the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development.
The program creates a pathway for MENA region-based researchers to design and conduct randomized evaluations focused on poverty reduction and social development policies.
Over two years, fellows:
- Work directly on a randomized evaluation alongside J-PAL affiliates
- Receive structured mentorship from senior researchers
- Complete two MIT MicroMasters online courses
- Participate in targeted technical and professional development training
- Contribute to J-PAL MENA’s research portfolio
In the second year, fellows will have the opportunity to design their own randomized evaluation project under expert guidance. If you are interested in policy research, you might also want to check out the Megatrends Afrika Fellowship 2026, which offers €2,800 monthly in Germany.
This opportunity is officially offered by the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), and applicants should apply through the official application portal.
Fellowship Components
The J-PAL MENA Scholars Fellowship 2026 includes:
- Hands-on involvement in a randomized impact evaluation
- One-on-one mentorship from J-PAL affiliates and scientific directors
- Enrollment in two MIT MicroMasters courses in evaluation design and econometrics
- Cohort-based networking across the MENA region and globally
- Media and public engagement guidance
- Participation in regional policy events
- Advanced training on proposal writing and technical research tools
- Design of an independent evaluation project in Year Two
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the J-PAL MENA Scholars Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following:
Education
- Specialization in Economics or related disciplines (public policy, political science, public health, statistics, etc.)
Track 1 – PhD Students
- Currently enrolled in a PhD program (inside or outside MENA)
- Nationality from a MENA country
Track 2 – Academic Scholars
- Completed a PhD in Economics or a related field
- Affiliated with a MENA academic institution
Additional Requirements
- High-level proficiency in Arabic and English
- Strong quantitative skills (Stata or R recommended)
- Clear interest in poverty alleviation and development policy in MENA
- Willingness to work on randomized evaluations
- Commitment to the full two-year fellowship program
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- USD $15,000 stipend distributed over two years
- Access to two MIT MicroMasters courses
- Mentorship from internationally recognized researchers
- Participation in regional policy forums and research events
- Professional visibility and potential media exposure
- Inclusion in J-PAL’s global research network
- Practical experience in impact evaluation design and implementation
The fellowship is structured to provide both financial support and long-term academic growth.
Who Should Apply
This fellowship is ideal for:
- PhD students seeking applied research experience
- Early-career academics in economics and development studies
- Researchers interested in impact evaluation methodologies
- Scholars focused on poverty, education, health, climate, or labor markets in MENA
Applicants who want to integrate rigorous randomized evaluation into their research agenda will benefit most.
Application Process
To apply for the J-PAL MENA Scholars Fellowship 2026:
- Review eligibility criteria carefully.
- Prepare required academic and professional documents.
- Complete the application form via the official fellowship page.
- Submit all materials before the stated deadline.
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further review or interviews.
How to Apply
If you are ready to deepen your expertise in impact evaluation and expand your academic network, consider applying early. Ensure your research interests align clearly with poverty reduction and development policy in the MENA region.
Submit your application through the official J-PAL fellowship portal.
