Francis H. Brown African Scholarship 2025: Apply Now!

About the Francis H. Brown African Scholarship

The Francis H. Brown African Scholarship is a transformative funding opportunity designed to support aspiring East African researchers and students in the fields of earth sciences and botany. By providing financial assistance to scholars dedicated to studying human origins and the natural world, this scholarship ensures the continued growth of scientific expertise within East Africa while fostering groundbreaking research aligned with the legacy of Dr. Francis H. Brown.

The Francis H. Brown African Scholarship Fund was established to advance human knowledge in earth sciences and botany, particularly in areas related to the study of human origins. The fund honors the legacy of Dr. Francis H. Brown, whose pioneering work in geology and related disciplines has profoundly impacted our understanding of human evolution.

The scholarship aims to address the underrepresentation of East African researchers in these critical fields by offering financial support for advanced study and research. By investing in talented scholars, the fund not only enables cutting-edge research but also strengthens the scientific capacity of East African institutions. Recipients are encouraged to pursue impactful research and teaching careers, ensuring that the knowledge and skills gained benefit their home countries for years to come.

This program is particularly focused on fostering research that builds on Dr. Brown’s contributions while promoting a deeper understanding of the environmental and geological contexts of human evolution. Through this support, the scholarship aspires to nurture a new generation of East African scientists who will lead advancements in their fields and contribute to global scientific discourse.

Eligibility Criteria

The Francis H. Brown African Scholarship is open to promising researchers and students who meet the following criteria:

Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of Kenya, Ethiopia, or Eritrea, ensuring a regional focus on building scientific capacity within East Africa.
Academic Status:
- Candidates should be actively pursuing a doctoral degree at an accredited university. While preference is given to institutions located in Sub-Saharan Africa, applicants from other regions are also eligible.
- Alternatively, applicants who have already completed their doctoral degree are eligible, provided their degree was awarded no more than six years prior to the application date.
Commitment to Career Development: Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing careers in research and teaching, with an emphasis on contributing to the scientific and educational advancement of their home country upon completing their studies.
Field of Study: The scholarship supports research specifically focused on earth sciences or botany, particularly in topics that explore the connections between these fields and human origins.

Benefits of the Francis H. Brown African Scholarship 2025

The Francis H. Brown African Scholarship provides substantial financial support, with a maximum award of $25,000 per recipient. This funding is designed to cover essential research-related expenses, such as:

Fieldwork and data collection.
Specialized equipment and laboratory costs.

Travel and accommodation for research purposes.
Academic materials and resources necessary for advancing the recipient’s studies.

This significant financial assistance enables scholars to focus on conducting meaningful and impactful research, free from the burden of financial constraints.

How to Apply

Applications for the Francis H. Brown African Scholarship must be submitted no later than July 15 to be considered for funding, which will be awarded in December of the same year.

To apply, candidates are required to submit a detailed research proposal that outlines their objectives, methodology, and the potential impact of their work. A complete application package should include the following:

A well-prepared research proposal highlighting the relevance of the proposed study to the fields of earth sciences or botany.

Proof of citizenship (passport or national ID) from Kenya, Ethiopia, or Eritrea.
Evidence of enrollment in or completion of a doctoral program (e.g., academic transcripts or certificates).
A personal statement demonstrating a commitment to a research and teaching career in their home country.

Any supporting documentation that strengthens the application, such as recommendation letters or relevant publications.

Applications should be submitted via the designated online portal or email (if specified), ensuring all materials are provided by the July 15 deadline.

This scholarship not only provides a platform for individual growth but also serves as a catalyst for advancing the scientific infrastructure and expertise within East Africa. Aspiring scientists passionate about research and teaching are encouraged to apply and be part of this transformative initiative.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY