African Climate Intervention Fellowship (ACIFER) 2026 Opens Applications for Emerging Climate Researchers Across Africa

As climate change continues to pose significant challenges across Africa, a new generation of researchers and innovators is being called upon to help shape the continent’s response to emerging climate solutions. Applications are now open for the African Climate Intervention Fellowship for Early-Career Researchers (ACIFER) 2026, a fully funded virtual fellowship designed to strengthen African leadership in climate intervention research.

Hosted by Emerging Climate Frontiers (ECF), the fellowship offers a unique opportunity for early-career researchers, Master’s students, PhD candidates, professionals, and innovators from across Africa to deepen their understanding of climate intervention strategies while contributing African perspectives to global climate discussions.

The fully virtual programme will run from 31 August to 14 October 2026 and is open to applicants from all African countries. Applications close on 30 July 2026.

Strengthening Africa’s Voice in Climate Innovation

Climate intervention technologies are increasingly becoming part of global conversations about addressing the climate crisis. However, African perspectives remain underrepresented in many of these discussions despite the continent being among the most vulnerable to climate change impacts.

The ACIFER fellowship seeks to address this gap by equipping African researchers with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to engage meaningfully in climate intervention research and policy development.

By fostering African expertise in emerging climate technologies and governance frameworks, the programme aims to ensure that future climate solutions are informed by regional realities, local priorities, and principles of equity and justice.

Understanding Climate Intervention Research

A major focus of the fellowship is building capacity in two rapidly evolving areas of climate science: Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and Solar Radiation Modification (SRM).

Carbon Dioxide Removal refers to methods designed to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it safely over long periods. These approaches are increasingly viewed as important complements to emissions reductions in achieving global climate goals.

Solar Radiation Modification, meanwhile, explores techniques that could potentially reflect a portion of sunlight back into space to reduce global temperatures. While still highly debated, SRM has become an important area of research due to growing concerns about the pace of climate change.

Through ACIFER, fellows will gain exposure to scientific, policy, ethical, and governance dimensions of these emerging fields while critically examining their potential relevance for African contexts.

A Fully Funded Learning Experience

The fellowship combines technical learning, professional development, mentorship, and collaborative research opportunities in a comprehensive virtual format.

Participants will benefit from expert-led webinars covering climate intervention science, climate modelling, impact assessment, and emerging policy debates. These sessions will be delivered by leading researchers and practitioners working at the forefront of climate science and innovation.

In addition to technical learning, fellows will receive support in developing research proposals, contributing to policy briefs, and refining ideas that can inform future climate action and decision-making processes.

The programme also provides opportunities for participants to gain practical experience in proposal pitching and scientific communication—valuable skills for those pursuing careers in research, academia, policy, or climate innovation.

Mentorship and Continental Networking

One of the most valuable aspects of the fellowship is its emphasis on mentorship and networking.

Selected fellows will engage with experienced experts from Africa and around the world, gaining insights into current research trends and career pathways within climate science and policy. The programme also promotes peer-to-peer learning, enabling participants to collaborate with fellow researchers from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

This collaborative environment helps create lasting connections that can support future research partnerships, policy initiatives, and innovation projects across the continent.

The previous edition of ACIFER demonstrated the programme’s growing impact. More than 400 applications were received, and 60 fellows from over 45 African countries were selected, creating a vibrant and diverse community of emerging climate leaders.

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship is open to a broad range of applicants with an interest in climate-related issues.

Eligible candidates include early-career researchers, Master’s students, PhD candidates, professionals working in relevant sectors, and innovators interested in climate intervention research. Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to climate science, policy development, research, innovation, or related disciplines.

The programme particularly welcomes individuals who are eager to contribute African-led perspectives to global climate conversations and who are committed to advancing evidence-based solutions for climate challenges facing the continent.

Advancing Climate Leadership in Africa

As global efforts to address climate change intensify, there is a growing need for diverse voices and region-specific expertise. Programmes such as ACIFER help ensure that African researchers are not only participants in climate discussions but leaders shaping the future of climate science and policy.

By investing in knowledge development, collaboration, and innovation, the fellowship contributes to building a stronger ecosystem of climate researchers capable of influencing decisions that affect communities across Africa and beyond.

For aspiring climate leaders, researchers, and innovators, ACIFER 2026 represents a valuable opportunity to gain cutting-edge knowledge, connect with leading experts, and become part of a growing movement dedicated to advancing African leadership in climate intervention research.

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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of  emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.