WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 (Paid Civil Society & Biodiversity Research Fellowship in West Africa) – Apply by March 13
The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is a paid six-month research opportunity for young scholars in West Africa interested in civil society, biodiversity, and conservation. Fellows receive mentorship, research funding, and publication opportunities while strengthening their analytical and documentation skills across the region.
Quick Facts
- Host Organization: West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI)
- Host Region: West Africa
- Program Type: Research Fellowship
- Funding Type: Paid Fellowship (stipend + research allowance)
- Eligible Countries: Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal
- Duration: 6 months (May–October 2026)
- Deadline: March 13, 2026
About the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026
The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is designed to strengthen the research and documentation capacity of emerging scholars working on civil society and development issues in West Africa. The programme connects young researchers with experienced mentors and provides practical opportunities to produce publishable work that supports policy and advocacy in the region.
The 2026 fellowship places special emphasis on indigenous knowledge in biodiversity and conservation. Fellows will explore how community practices and civil society initiatives contribute to environmental sustainability and climate action across West African countries.
Through this fellowship, participants gain hands-on research experience, contribute to regional knowledge production, and build professional networks within the civil society ecosystem.
This program bridges the gap between academia and civil society, much like the IDB Global Internship 2026, which offers professional growth in international development.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, or Senegal
- Be a young researcher interested in civil society, biodiversity, or conservation
- Demonstrate strong analytical and independent research skills
- Show clear relevance between their topic and biodiversity/conservation
- Be able to communicate fluently in English and/or French
- Have an interest in documentation, policy research, or civil society development
Applicants working in biodiversity-focused organizations are encouraged to apply, but independent researchers are also eligible.
Young researchers from Nigeria and other West African countries are encouraged to apply. If you are looking for corporate roles in Nigeria, you can also check the KPMG Graduate Trainee Program 2026.
Benefits
The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 provides:
- Monthly stipend for the fellowship duration
- Dedicated research allowance
- Mentorship from experienced researchers
- Publication opportunity on WACSI platforms
- Production of a policy paper, issue paper, or article
- Professional networking within West African civil society
- Access to WACSI publications and knowledge resources
- Career-building research and documentation experience
Fellows will gain expert mentorship in conservation. For more opportunities in the environmental sector, see our post on WWF Remote Job Opportunities.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026:
- Prepare a motivation letter (theme + duration of interest)
- Update your CV
- Write a one-page research synopsis
- Provide a writing sample or published article
- Email all documents to the fellowship contacts
- Submit before March 13, 2026
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in April 2026.
How to Apply
If you are a young West African researcher passionate about civil society and biodiversity, the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is your opportunity to gain global visibility and professional mentorship. Ensure you submit your application via email as instructed before the March 13, 2026, deadline to be considered for this prestigious program.
For more details, download the official call for applications here.
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