MENA Junior Fellowship 2026: A 3-Month Research Programme for Early-Career MENA Scholars

Early-career researchers from the Middle East and North Africa have a tailor-made opportunity to advance their work this autumn. The MENA Junior Fellowship 2026, now in its third edition, is a three-month research programme created for early-career scholars and independent researchers working on topics related to the Middle East and North Africa. Selected fellows gain affiliation with a European-based research institute, access to an interdisciplinary research community, and a package of research training, mentorship, academic supervision and publication support. Applications must be submitted by 16 August 2026, and the programme begins on 1 September 2026.

Why this fellowship is designed for MENA researchers

Unlike broad international calls where MENA applicants compete against everyone, this fellowship is built specifically around MENA-focused research and early-career scholars. That focus matters: it means your regional expertise is an asset rather than a disadvantage, and the mentorship and supervision are geared toward researchers at the start of their path. Affiliation with a European-based institute also gives you a foothold in the European research ecosystem, useful whether you plan to pursue a PhD, publish internationally, or build networks for future study abroad.

Who is eligible to apply

The programme is aimed at early-career scholars and independent researchers whose work relates to the Middle East and North Africa. It is well suited to recent graduates, PhD candidates and independent researchers who want structured support to develop a research project and move toward publication. Because exact eligibility criteria, required qualifications and any nationality or residency conditions can vary between editions, confirm the specific requirements on the official page before applying.

What the fellowship offers

Fellows receive research training, mentorship and academic supervision, along with publication support to help move their work toward a finished output. You also gain affiliation with a European-based research institute and access to an interdisciplinary research community, which brings both credibility and connections. For details of any stipend, travel or accommodation support, and whether the fellowship is in-residence or remote, check the official page, as these practical terms are set by the host and should be confirmed before you commit.

Degree level and field

This is a short research fellowship (three months) for early-career scholars and independent researchers across disciplines relating to the Middle East and North Africa.

How to apply: step by step

Start by defining the research topic you want to develop during the fellowship and how it connects to the Middle East and North Africa, since a clear, focused project is the heart of a strong application. Read the official call carefully to confirm eligibility and the exact documents required, which typically include a CV, a research proposal or statement, and possibly references or writing samples. Prepare your materials with time to spare, then submit through the official channel before the 16 August 2026 deadline so you are ready for the 1 September 2026 start.

Frequently asked questions

Apply now

If you are an early-career researcher focused on the MENA region and want mentorship, a European institute affiliation and support to publish, this fellowship is built for you. Review the full details and apply before 16 August 2026: read the announcement and application details here.

Source: MENA Junior Fellowship 2026 (third edition) — official call. Confirm all practical details on the official programme page.