The Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) invites early-career African researchers to apply for its fully funded African Scholarship Programme 2027. This prestigious initiative supports impactful work in Social Sciences and Humanities by offering a 60–90-day research residency in Uppsala, Sweden. Successful applicants will gain access to world-class resources, mentorship, and international networks all aligned with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Overview
Based in Uppsala, NAI bridges African and Nordic academic communities to foster cutting-edge research on contemporary Africa. The 2027 programme targets PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers employed at African institutions who lack international funding. During their stay, scholars will:
- Conduct independent research in NAI’s dedicated workspace
- Access the institute’s specialized library on African studies
- Collaborate with Nordic and African experts
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and networking events
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet one of the following categories and be based in Africa:
- PhD Candidates: Enrolled full-time in an Africa-based doctoral programme, employed at a local university or research centre, and without access to international PhD funding.
- Postdoctoral Researchers: Completed PhD within the last four years and employed full-time at an African institution.
Projects should focus on contemporary African issues especially gender equity, sustainable development, and societal transformations and align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. NAI encourages applications from women and under-represented regions. All materials must be submitted in English; proposals should reflect an authentic scholarly voice.
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Scholarship Benefits
This fully funded programme covers all essential costs so you can focus on your research:
- Return economy-class airfare to Uppsala
- Accommodation for the full 60–90-day stay
- Daily allowance of 450 SEK (≈50 USD) for days in Uppsala
- One-time installation grant of 2,500 SEK (≈280 USD)
- Dedicated desk and computer in a shared office
- Access to NAI’s renowned contemporary Africa library
- Mentorship from NAI researchers and networking events
Beyond financial support, this residency enhances global visibility, fosters career advancement, and often leads to policy-relevant publications. Alumni have successfully secured further funding and published influential work.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online via NAI’s official portal. To prepare a competitive proposal:
- Confirm your eligibility and align your project with NAI’s research priorities.
- Draft a five-page research outline showcasing originality, clear methodology, and policy relevance.
- Have mentors review your proposal for clarity and rigour.
- Submit all documents well before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
Proposals are evaluated on academic merit, feasibility, and contribution to African studies. Successful candidates will begin their residency in early 2027.
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae: Up to two pages, highlighting Africa-based employment, PhD status, publications, teaching, and outreach experience.
- Research Project Outline (5 pages):
- Introduction & project urgency
- Aims and scope
- Literature review
- Research design and methods
- Implications and contribution to knowledge (link to UN SDGs)
- Reference list
Project Outline Tips
Use concise, compelling language. Hook evaluators in the introduction, ground your aims in existing literature, detail rigorous methods, and emphasize policy impact. Tailor your reference list to contemporary African scholarship.
CV Guidelines
Focus on relevant experience and publications. List teaching or community engagement to demonstrate wider impact. Keep the format professional, current, and under two pages.
Important Deadline
The application deadline is 6 April 2026. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. With today’s date at 13 February 2026, there is ample time for thorough preparation.
Apply Now: NAI African Scholarship Programme 2027 – https://nai.uu.se/opportunities/african-scholarship-programme.html
This programme is a unique gateway for Africa-based scholars to amplify their research on global platforms. Leverage NAI’s resources, mentorship, and networks to drive forward projects that address pressing societal challenges. Start crafting your application today and position yourself for a transformative research experience in 2027.
