SIANI African Scholarship Programme 2026 for Early Career Researchers: Apply Now!

About the SIANI African Scholarship Programme

Are you an early-career researcher based in Africa, eager to advance your studies in a world-class research environment? The SIANI African Scholarship Programme 2026 offers a unique opportunity to conduct research at the Nordic Africa Institute in Sweden. This fully funded program provides access to specialized academic resources, expert mentorship, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration between African and Nordic research communities.

The African Scholarship Programme aims to support early-career researchers by offering them the opportunity to develop their ongoing research in a stimulating academic environment. Through this initiative, the Nordic Africa Institute seeks to contribute to the production of knowledge about Africa while strengthening connections between African and Nordic scholars.

Programme Duration

The scholarship covers a research stay of approximately 90 days (3 months).

Due to limited institutional activities, applicants cannot choose research periods between 15 June–15 August and 15 December–15 January.

Benefits of the SIANI African Scholarship Programme

Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive support package, including:

Round-trip airfare (economy class) to and from Uppsala, Sweden.

Fully funded accommodation for the duration of the research stay.
Daily subsistence allowance of 400 SEK (approximately 40 USD) to cover living expenses (only for days spent in Uppsala).
Installation grant of 2,500 SEK (approximately 250 USD) to assist with initial costs upon arrival.

Access to a shared office space at the Nordic Africa Institute, equipped with a desk and computer.
Extensive academic resources, including:
- The Nordic Africa Institute Library, specializing in contemporary African studies with a strong Social Sciences focus.
- Uppsala University Library, one of Sweden’s premier academic libraries.
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Library, offering valuable research materials across various disciplines.

Eligibility Criteria

The programme is open to early-career researchers engaged in Africa-focused research within the Social Sciences and Humanities. Applicants should also align their research with the UN Agenda 2030 impact areas prioritized by the Nordic Africa Institute. Further eligibility criteria include:

Applicants must be based in Africa and actively engaged in research related to contemporary Africa.
Two main categories are eligible:
1. Doctoral Candidates: Full-time university or research center employees in Africa who are enrolled in a PhD program but lack access to international scholarships.
2. Postdoctoral Researchers: Individuals who completed their PhD within the last four years.
Research topics related to gender studies and the position of women in society are strongly encouraged.
The programme prioritizes gender and geographic balance in the selection of candidates.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications, including a detailed research proposal and supporting documents, through the official Nordic Africa Institute portal.

This scholarship presents a remarkable opportunity to advance your research in a globally recognized institution. If you meet the eligibility requirements, apply today and take the next step in your academic journey!