Early Career Researchers Spring School 2026 in South Africa (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the Early Career Researchers Spring School 2026, a fully funded three-day training programme taking place in South Africa. Organized by the University of Fort Hare in collaboration with the CGIAR Climate Security Team, the programme focuses on Climate, Peace, and Security in Southern Africa.

The Spring School is designed to equip early-career researchers with interdisciplinary knowledge, practical research skills, and regional networking opportunities to address the growing challenges of climate change, conflict, and sustainable development. Selected participants will receive full financial support, including travel, accommodation, and meals.

Programme Summary

• Host Country: South Africa
• Host Institution: University of Fort Hare
• Organizers: University of Fort Hare and CGIAR Climate Security Team
• Programme Type: Spring School
• Programme Duration: 3 Days
• Programme Dates: 2–4 September 2026
• Venue: University of Fort Hare, East London Campus
• Eligible Nationalities: Applicants currently residing in South Africa
• Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
• Application Mode: Online
• Application Deadline: 14 August 2026

Selected participants will receive:

• Full travel expenses
• Accommodation during the programme
• Daily meals
• Participation in expert-led training sessions
• Interactive workshops
• Field visit
• Networking opportunities with researchers and practitioners
• Certificate of participation (subject to programme requirements)

Programme Highlights

Participants will benefit from:

• Interactive lectures by leading academics and practitioners
• Practical training on climate, peace, and security
• Group research projects
• Field-based learning experience
• Regional networking opportunities
• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• Skills development for evidence-based policymaking

The Spring School is open to:

• Master's students
• PhD students
• Postdoctoral research fellows
• Early-career researchers
• Young professionals

Applicants from the following fields are encouraged to apply:

• Climate Change
• Climate Security
• Environmental Science
• Peace and Conflict Studies
• Political Science
• Migration Studies
• Sociology
• Development Studies
• International Development
• Environmental Policy
• Sustainability Studies
• Related disciplines

The programme welcomes applications from:

• Individuals currently living in South Africa

Women and applicants from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must:

• Be an early-career researcher, Master's student, PhD student, postdoctoral fellow, or young professional.
• Be currently residing in South Africa.
• Be working in climate, environmental science, peace studies, political science, migration, sociology, development studies, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrate an interest in climate resilience, peacebuilding, or sustainable development.
• Submit all required application documents before the deadline.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare:

• Completed online application form
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover letter explaining:
  • Interest in the Spring School
  • How the programme relates to current research or professional work

Application Process

To apply for the Early Career Researchers Spring School 2026:

1. Visit the official online application portal.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Prepare your updated CV.
4. Write a cover letter describing your research interests and motivation.
5. Upload all required documents.
6. Submit your application before 14 August 2026.
7. Wait for the selection results from the organizers.

Why Apply for the Spring School?

This programme provides an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers to strengthen their knowledge of climate, peace, and security while developing practical research skills and expanding their professional networks. Participants will engage with leading experts, collaborate with peers from across South Africa, and gain valuable insights into addressing climate-related challenges through interdisciplinary approaches.